Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi wants to make mark in Europe

Shola Ameobi: Determined to make the most of European adventure after Christmas

Shola Ameobi has admitted that it was a step too far for Newcastle United's inexperienced players against Bordeaux on Thursday, but he is looking forward to the resumption of their European campaign in the New Year.

Alan Pardew has regularly rotated his squad for Europa League games this season and the fringe players have responded mostly with positive performances to ensure progression to the knockout stages.

However, the Magpies were beaten 2-0 by Bordeaux in midweek and Ameobi accepts that the game acted as a reality check.

"There are no excuses, we were not up to speed. It was very disappointing. Our inexperience perhaps told in the end with the boys chucked in at the deep end," he said in The Sun.

"At times that has worked out well for us in Europe but this was a step too far.

"But we are through and we are delighted. We want to stamp our mark on Europe.

"Hopefully we can look forward to February with a fully-fit squad and really attack with all guns blazing.

"We know how good those Europe nights are."