Steve McClaren seeks Mike Ashley backing after Newcastle drubbing

Crystal Palace 5 Newcastle 1: Steve McClaren hopes Mike Ashley will back him to the hilt so he can command the dressing-room respect needed to win Newcastle’s relegation dogfight.

The Newcastle manager admitted fears he may struggle to spark a response from his players after his midweek training ground rant only ended in a 5-1 thrashing at Crystal Palace.

McClaren unleashed some home truths following Newcastle’s 3-0 loss to Leicester at St James’ Park, only for his side to capitulate spectacularly at Selhurst Park.