Steve Bruce has insisted he could not have asked his team for more effort after their narrow defeat at Chelsea.
Bruce’s side had no efforts on target but the Toon boss felt they made the wrong decision in the final third at times.
The defeat leaves Newcastle in need of a win against Wolves next weekend at St James’ Park.
Bruce said after the game: “I couldn’t ask for any more effort - the big thing, where we have to improve, is in the last third.
“We had some unbelievable opportunities in the first half and took the wrong option, the wrong pass.
“I thought we gave as good as we got.
“I thought it was a foul on Joelinton in the lead up the goal, and we never really regained possession after that.
“When you come to Chelsea, you need those decisions to go your way.”
Responding to questions on Newcastle’s failure to have a shot on target, Bruce said: “Therein lies the problem.
“We didn’t really have big chances but we had big opportunities to make the big chance and missed the pass.
“Allan’s only young, big Jo’s only young and they can adapt to playing in England and getting better.
“Almiron - for all his good work - his confidence is a bit low because he hasn’t scored since he’s been here in January.
“However, his work rate and his effort and endeavour and what he gives the team is there for everyone to see. We just need to give him a goal.
“When you’re a forward player you need to score and that’s what we’ve got to do.”
