Pellegrini: More work to do to be ready for the season

Manuel Pellegrini stressed the importance of fitness and preparation over performance and results after his West Ham United finished the Premier League Asia Trophy in fourth place. It was a hot and humid afternoon in Shanghai and players took numerous opportunities to take on board extra fluids. Consequently, the game was played at a slow pace, but Newcastle took the lead after 34 minutes when Yoshinori Muto turned in Jamie Sterry's cross. With no further goals in the first half Newcastle, backed by a vociferous group of Chinese fans, led 1-0 at the break. The game ended 1-0, earning Bruce a win in his first match since linking up with the squad in China. It also meant Newcastle claimed third place in the exhibition event.