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Tony Pulis backs Newcastle manager John Carver's 'best coach' claim

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Ahead of West Brom's trip to Newcastle, Tony Pulis says that support from owners is essential if a manager wants to have a long time at the top, recalling

West Brom manager Tony Pulis has backed Newcastle counterpart John Carver over his 'I'm the best coach' claims.

The Magpies boss, whose side have lost eight straight Premier League games and now find themselves just two points above the relegation zone, raised eyebrows with his comments on Thursday.

But Pulis, who takes his Baggies to St James' Park on Saturday, believes supreme confidence is just what is required in a relegation battle.

He said: "We all have that self-confidence and you have got to have self-confidence. He has found himself in a very difficult situation. When he took over probably everyone thought they were safe and they've just got dragged into it.

He has found himself in a very difficult situation. When he took over probably everyone thought they were safe and they've just got dragged into it.
Pulis on Carver

"The big thing about football is you should never take anything for granted because it could turn around and kick you in the backside.

"They have three games to pick some points up and one of those games is against us. We have a responsibility to everyone in the league to give it our best."

With West Brom seven points above the drop zone and seemingly clear of trouble, Pulis is waiting on the fitness of several squad members ahead of the trip to Tyneside.

More from Newcastle V West Brom

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Tony Pulis talks to Soccer Saturday about his success at West Brom and compares his current club to his previous jobs.

He said: "We have one or two knocks or bruises so we won't be able to pick the team until tomorrow."