Newcastle manager Steve McClaren is confident he has the backing of club owner Mike Ashley, despite his side’s poor start to the season.
The Magpies are yet to take 3 points from a game, but McClaren does believe progress is being made as St James’ Park.
Having been reportedly given the target of a top eight finish before the season began, McClaren had requested that he be judged after 10 games.
We’re now 8 games into the season, however, and Newcastle are in severe trouble judging by the league table.
McClaren is still positive, though.
If you’re together and they know you’re doing the job and you’re doing it right and you’re doing the right things and the players are responding, then wherever you are – be it Newcastle or whatever – they’ll say, ‘You know what, we’re on the right lines’.
Perhaps some solace for Newcastle fans but the table – as it stands – doesn’t lie.
McClaren then discussed loyalty at such a big club, referencing Pardew and Carver’s time in the North East.
We’ve got to make sure we do the right things and do the right job and go through the right process and if the club can see that… That’s what John Carver demonstrated and obviously what Alan Pardew demonstrated. That’s what you call a loyalty.
After recent managerial sackings – namely Rodgers and Advocaat – McClaren’s tenure has been further highlighted and put under the spotlight.
There’s always scrutiny on you, isn’t there? This is Newcastle. Always, from day one. But I’m experienced enough to know that, to deal with it and handle it, and it’s really not a problem.
The Magpies, and Steve McClaren, host newly promoted Norwich City on Sunday – a chance to break the 3 point duck.
