Magpies to lose Cisse to Olympics
Newcastle United's Papiss Cisse
The Senegal international proved to be a shrewd January acquisition by the Magpies, as he settled quickly into English football.
Big things are expected of him in 2012/13, with the St James' Park faithful hoping his prolific form in front of goal will continue. They are, however, unlikely to get much of a look at Cisse during the club's summer preparations.
Senegal wants the 27-year-old to form part of their squad at the 2012 Olympic Games. Newcastle will not stand in Cisse's way if he is selected to compete in London, but Pardew admits the situation is far from ideal.
The highly-rated frontman is already due to head off for Africa Cup of Nations duty in January, with the Magpies set to see him miss a crucial period of the Premier League season.
Pardew said: "We have to give our permission and we are sort of discussing it.
"It's awkward because we want to prepare for a difficult season ahead of Europa League and Premier League games."
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