Criticism of me is unfair, says defiant Allardyce

NEWCASTLE United supporters make no secret of the fact that they have a particular affinity for the FA Cup, more than half a century after the black and white ribbons were last draped on the famous old trophy.

However, even a competition which evokes memories of Jackie Milburn at his inspirational peak can be cruel.

There are many places an under-pressure Sam Allardyce would rather be than the unforgiving surroundings of Stoke City’s Britannia Stadium on Sunday.