Newcastle United transfers: Hatem Ben Arfa ‘very happy’ at Magpies

Hatem Ben Arfa has insisted he is “very happy” at Newcastle United despite the Magpies’ disappointing start to the season.

The France international was a key member of Alan Pardew’s squad as they came close to securing a top-four finish last term, before eventually settling for a place in the Europa League.

But Newcastle, who are in 14th place, have failed to reach those dizzying heights this campaign, beating Wigan last week following four consecutive Premier League defeats.

Despite a disappointing start, Ben Arfa, who was accustomed to playing Champions League football at Lyon and Marseille, maintains he is happy at the club.

“I feel very happy in Newcastle, I feel welcome, I feel loved here,” Ben Arfa told the Independent.

“I love the city, I love the place. I love it when the fans come to meet me, or they come to see me.”

Ben Arfa suffered a broken leg following a challenge from Nigel de Jong in 2010, and the playmaker believes the injury aided his development after making an eye-catching comeback last term.

“I think there is a reason I had that experience, maybe to learn more,” he said.

“I am happy to have had that experience today but not then. I can be philosophical about it now. It is a very good thing. I have learned from the experience.”

Open a bet365 account with £10 or more and you'll get a free bet of up to £200 on us. Click here for more information.

Like The Sport Review on Facebook:

Read more on: Alan Pardew, Football transfers, hatem ben arfa, Newcastle United, Premier League.