Newcastle United have revealed they will stand by current manager John Carver, amid reports they failed with an approach for Steve McClaren.
Having allowed Alan Pardew to leave for Crystal Palace in January, the Magpies couldn’t find a permanent replacement so instead promoted assistant Carver for the remainder of the season. But it has been a hugely difficult time for the 50-year-old, who has seen his side fall to eight successive defeats to plunge them into a battle to retain their Premier League status.
Following the embarrassing 3-0 defeat at Leicester City on Saturday, in which two Newcastle players were sent off, it had been suggested that Derby County boss McClaren had rejected an approach to take over the final three games of the campaign. And now the St James’ Park club have released a statement to confirm they intend to stand by Carver, despite the recent run of results.
“The board, John Carver, his staff and players are absolutely focused on our current situation and the three hugely-important fixtures that remain this season,” read the statement. “All parties accept responsibility for the current situation but are determined, together, to ensure this club – your club – retains its Premier League status. That is the only focus at this time.”
Earlier on Monday the Telegraph reported that McClaren had been approached following the defeat to Leicester, but the former England coach didn’t want to jump head first into such a crucial period in the club’s history. The Derby boss will instead reflect on his future over the summer, after seeing his side miss out on the playoffs following a 3-0 home loss to Reading on Saturday.
Carver must now address any issues he has within his first team squad as they look to avoid the drop into the Championship. He accused Mike Williamson of getting himself sent off on purpose against Leicester, and has also accused the players of lacking the type of fight he himself possesses. Newcastle’s final three matches are against West Bromwich Albion at home, Queens Park Rangers away, and then on the final day of the campaign they welcome West Ham United to Tyneside.
Are Newcastle United destined for relegation under John Carver, and has their approach for Steve McClaren merely made their situation worse?
