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Teamwork key for Cabaye

Image: Yohan Cabaye: Has highlighted Newcastle's team spirit as a key factor in the club's success

Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye feels teamwork has been an important factor in the club's successful Premier League season.

No player is bigger than the team at Newcastle, says France star

Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye feels teamwork has been a key factor in the club's successful Premier League season. The Magpies surprised many in 2011-12 and were in the hunt for third until the final day of the season before settling for fifth spot. Alan Pardew earned the LMA manager of the year award for his efforts with the likes of Papiss Cisse, Demba Ba and Cabaye himself emerging as stand-out stars. But the France international, who signed from Lille in the summer, believes Newcastle's success was due to the collective rather than any acts of individual brilliance. "Finishing fifth was beyond the expectations of the club and fans," said Cabaye, quoted in the Newcastle Evening Chronicle. "What makes us strong is that at no time a player has felt bigger than the team. We all worked for our team-mates.

Adapt

"For my part, I managed to adapt myself quickly. "We had a long unbeaten run at the start of the season, which helped me gain confidence." He added: "There are many French and African players here, as at Arsenal, so there isn't a language barrier, which makes things easier. "We get along well with everyone - there really is a good atmosphere in this group. We do not exclude anyone."