Newcastle United flight to Bordeaux delayed by wintry weather

Europa League preparations hit by cold snap

Alan Pardew has seen his side slump since signing a new deal (PA)

Wintry weather on Tyneside hit Newcastle's Europa League preparations this afternoon when their flight to Bordeaux was delayed.

The Magpies were due to fly out to France after training at their Darsley Park headquarters, but Alan Pardew and his players were told they would not be leaving until at least an hour after their scheduled departure time.

Pardew is due to hold a pre-match press conference at the Stade Chaban-Delmas at 6pm local time, but that too may now have to be delayed.

The Group D rivals are due to meet tomorrow night with both having already qualified for the knockout stages and only top spot up for grabs.

Bordeaux are currently in the driving seat as a result of their 2-1 win in Bruges and the Magpies' disappointing 1-1 draw with Maritimo last month, and only a victory for Pardew's men will see them overhaul their hosts.

Temperatures are forecast to drop in Bordeaux tomorrow, although it was slightly warmer today than it was on Tyneside.

PA