Newcastle United

Steve McClaren backs John Carver for Newcastle United turnaround

By Shane Callaghan, Reporter | 06 May 2015

Derby County boss Steve McClaren backs under-fire Newcastle manager John Carver to put things right at St James' Park amid the fear of relegation.

Newcastle United boss John Carver has the know-how needed to steer the club from relegation this season, according to Steve McClaren.

The Magpies sit two points above the drop zone after losing their last eight league outings, with Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Leicester City viewed as a particular low point.

However, the Derby County manager, who has been linked with Carver's job, is expecting the 50-year-old to put things right in the final three games of the season.

"He's a Newcastle man. If everyone had the same passion that he's got for the job, they'd not be in that position," he is quoted as saying by the Daily Star.

"He epitomises that and he's trying to drag everyone along. I said to him last week, I wish him well and I think they should be okay.

"I've got great respect for Newcastle as a football club. I know the hugeness of it, I know what Newcastle means. I live in that area."

Carver was appointed on a short-term deal in January following Alan Pardew's resignation.