Steve McClaren has acknowledged that his immediate future at Newcastle United is uncertain but maintains he remains the right man for the job. A shattering and “unacceptable” 3-1 defeat to Bournemouth at St James’ Park, played out against a soundtrack of boos and catcalls not only left Mike Ashley, Newcastle’s owner, contemplating a big decision but made a mockery of a pre-match statement from Newcastle’s players pledging their loyalty to McClaren.
“The statement’s irrelevant,” said the former England coach. “If we play like that we’re not going to stay up. That wasn’t good enough. We’re very lucky it [potential survival] is still in our hands. This is the most frustrating team I’ve ever had.”
After making it plain he had no intention of stepping down, the 54-year-old was defiant as he addressed the sensitive question of his future. “Would I quit? No way,” he said. “I don’t do that. I have enough experience. I’ve been through this with chants like that [calling for his head]. That’s the perils of being a manager – and especially of this team.”
Asked about the prospect of being sacked the reply reflected similar candour. “That’s for other people to decide. You’ll have to ask them [the board], I can’t control that but I hope I’ll be here next week,” he said before refusing to criticise those baying fans.
“I can understand why they think that. I can understand their frustration. I’m as angry and frustrated as the supporters. Today was poor. Today was not acceptable. There weren’t enough characters out there.”
Unless – or until – he is told otherwise McClaren intends to ensure Newcastle finish above Aston Villa, Norwich and Sunderland. “It’s a four-team mini-League and we’ve got to win it,” he said. “I know we have the talent to do it.”
Whether players such as Georginio Wijnaldum and Moussa Sissoko will make such ability count between now and May is a moot point. After describing the collective performance against an impressive Bournemouth as “baffling”, McClaren said only Jonjo Shelvey, Daryl Janmaat, Jack Colback and Rob Elliot were exempt from blame.
“We’re losing,” he said. “The players have to accept the criticism. Be stronger. Become men.”
Speaking with commendable poise and dignity at the end of a week that had seen him become embroiled in an altercation with a journalist, Newcastle’s manager insisted he did not regret accepting the job last summer. “I still think this can be a great club,” he said. “But it needs things doing to it.”
Eddie Howe said a change of manager now does not rank among such reforms. “Steve’s an outstanding coach and manager,” said the Bournemouth manager, who refused to accept that reaching the 35-point mark has in effect banished any relegation fears for his side. “He’s also a gentleman. Given time I’m sure he can lead Newcastle to better times.”
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