Hatem Ben Arfa: Newcastle can challenge for Premier League title

HATEM BEN ARFA believes Newcastle can challenge for the Premier League title this season.

The Toon were the top flight’s surprise package last year as they defied the odds to finish fifth — above Champions League winners Chelsea and big spenders Liverpool.

And French forward Ben Arfa reckons the North-East outfit are ready to take on the likes of Manchester City for major honours this time round.

The 25-year-old ace said: “We have to have confidence as we have very good players.

“Maybe if we feel very good we can finish between fourth and first.

“Why not? Why can we not say we could be champions? Maybe? Anything is possible.

“We can challenge for it. We have good players, a good stadium and great supporters.

“We have to have confidence. I believe we can do what I say.”