Norwich City manager Chris Hughton has spoken of his "special connection" with his former club Newcastle United as he prepares to take them on at Carrow Road on Saturday.

PA PhotosChris Hughton had guided Newcastle to 11th in the Premier League at the time of his sacking

Hughton guided the Magpies back to the Premier League from the Championship, but was sacked just over two years ago with his team in 11th place in the top flight.

"I had a wonderful time there," Hughton, who was followed at St James' Park by Alan Pardew, told BBC Radio Norfolk.

"There's a special connection for me because I had three years at Newcastle that I thoroughly enjoyed.

"For me, there are a lot of comparisons between the support they have at Newcastle and the support that we have. It's a very local support and they want to get behind their local team. But ultimately it's just about trying to win a football match."

During his time on Tyneside, former Tottenham full-back Hughton won widespread praise for his dignified approach, and fans protested against his sacking in December 2010.

Pardew, meanwhile, will be eager to secure three points with his side two points above the relegation zone after a poor run of form.