Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Roger Johnson has defended Mick McCarthy after the manager was criticised over the club's recent form.

McCarthy's job is reportedly under threat after a run of bad form which has caused Wolves to drop to 19th in the Premier League.

"We've let ourselves down - the players on the pitch are the ones who let the staff and the fans down," Johnson said.

"The manager's head's on the chopping block. It's unfortunate. For me and all the lads, the manager needs to stay. We respect the manager massively."

The players have also drawn criticism from club owner Steve Morgan after the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool at the Molineux on Tuesday.

"We let ourselves down against Liverpool - and now it starts with Saturday, it's a massive game and a must win game, we'll all be up for it," Johnson added.

Johnson arrived at Wolves from Birmingham City in the summer.