Newcastle stand by John Carver following latest defeat

Newcastle United have issued a statement confirming John Carver will remain in charge as the club fights to stave off the threat of relegation.

A run of eight straight defeats, the latest a 3-0 reverse at Leicester City on Saturday, has left the Magpies just two points above the relegation places and brought Carver’s future into sharp focus.

Reports over the weekend suggested Derby County manager Steve McClaren may have been parachuted in for the final weeks of the campaign, but United have elected not to rock the boat.  

A club statement read: “Following the result at Leicester City on Saturday, there has been two days of frank dialogue with John Carver and senior players.

“The outcome of those discussions is that 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, two of which are at St James' Park.

“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.”

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Carver took temporary charge following Alan Pardew’s departure for Crystal Palace in January. Their last win came against Aston Villa on February 28.