Alan Pardew reveals why Sir Alex Ferguson refused to speak to him for 14 months

Alan Pardew has revealed how he made Sir Alex Ferguson "sulk" in one of his finest hours as Newcastle United boss.

The Londoner guided the Magpies to fifth place in the 2011/12 season and took the team into Europe, but a key victory over Manchester United at St James' Park helped them on their way.

That night goals from Demba Ba, Yohan Cabaye and a Phil Jones own goal secured an emphatic victory over the champions.

Pardew, speaking to the Coach's Voice, said: "You suddenly beat Man United 3-0 and I am shaking hands with Fergie on the sideline.

"I'm thinking: 'He's not going to be too happy.

"I did find out he wasn't too happy because he never spoke to me for about 14 months.

"Prior to that, he'd been texting me to say how well I'd done and everything.

Newcastle United's Demba Ba (left) celebrates his goal during the Barclays Premier League match at the St James' Park, Newcastle (PA)

"When you come up against these top managers you have to understand that everything is fine.

"They can be very nice gentlemen until you beat them.

"Fergie is still a dear friend of mine but he did have a little bit of a sulk over that result."

In an in-depth interview, Pardew also spoke about two of his most influential dressing room members at that time in Fabricio Coloccini and Yohan Cabaye.

Pardew said: "We had Fabricio Coloccini in the side and he was our best player on his day.

"It was an interesting situation when we got a free-kick.

"From where it was taken because even though Yohan Cabaye was having one of those seasons when he was on fire.

"It was a great set-up from a crossing situation.

"But as soon as Yohan put the ball down I thought: 'Hmm he's not going to put that in the box, he's gonna shoot!'

"At that point, you are like: 'That looks too far Yoh but give it a go.'

"He smashed it into the top corner and when you are up against a Fergie team and even a 2-0 cushion, when you have the bowl of fans at St James' Park, it's always going to be difficult.

Newcastle player Yohan Cabaye scores the second goal during the Barclays Premier league game between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St James' Park on January 4, 2012 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England (Getty Images)

"When that went in the confidence levels went up and we thought we could have a special night."

Looking back on the win, Pardew dedicated it to his players and staff.

Pardew added: "We were really happy because it was an iconic result.

"How many times in your career do you beat Man United 3-0?

"It's not often so for my players and staff it was a special night."