Newcastle boss Alan Pardew looking for Hatem Ben Arfa to improve fitness

Hatem Ben Arfa: Has been struggling with niggling knocks

Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew believes Hatem Ben Arfa must work on his fitness if he is to become a regular once more.

The French winger has struggled with niggling knocks since being laid low with a hamstring injury in December.

The 25-year-old has suffered regular setbacks in his recovery, preventing him from returning to Pardew's plans.

Ben Arfa will once again be missing when Newcastle go to Swansea City on Saturday, offering others another opportunity to impress in his absence.

Pardew has warned the France international that he cannot expect to walk straight back into the side, with it important for him to display a hunger and desire to return to peak condition as soon as possible.

The Magpies boss said: "I have to say his condition has disappointed me this week, and we will be working hard in the next few days to get him up to speed because he lacks a bit of fitness, for sure.

"I just think it's something we need to push him on at. His upper body strength is there, but we want to work on his general fitness. I think that needs to improve."