The Magpies have conceded just one goal so far this season in the Premier League and sit fourth on the table ahead of a trip to Aston Villa on Saturday.

Like Newcastle, Villa are also unbeaten this season, and Pardew is expecting a hostile reception at Villa Park.

"I think we've had a really tough set of fixtures to be honest with you and Aston Villa away is always difficult but as I say we've conceded one goal in the Premiership and that's going to give us a good foundation to win the game," Pardew said.

"We've had a really strong set of results and I think the confidence is still high. But it has been all through pre-season really so, it's important now to try and keep our momentum and try and keep that run going."

"I think they (Aston Villa) are a little bit like us in terms that they've got new players they are trying to bed in and not exactly sure what their best is at the moment.

"They've got some outstanding individuals of course and they'll be a definite threat to us."

Pardew credited the central defensive pairing of Fabio Coloccini and Stephen Taylor for Newcastle's strength at the back this season, but said they would not get overconfident after their impressive start.

"I took my phone and took a picture of it (the table with Newcastle in fourth) just to make sure it was correct," Pardew said.

"I think it's important, there are no signs of us getting carried away I don 't think that'll ever happen here under my management."

"I think Colloccini's captaincy has helped give a new sort of air of responsibility and I think that's being reflected on the pitch."

"And Stephen Taylor is playing the best football of his career, you know for me I think he has got a chance of being involved with England again and I think the management should come and have a look at him I think he's doing that well."

Pardew confirmed Davide Santon would have scans on his injured knee, but had better knews regarding Hatem Ben Arfa's impending return.

Ben Arfa, who has not played since breaking his leg in October last year, is back in full training and could return to the first team in the next few weeks.