Newcastle duo Shay Given and Steve Harper have moved to reject reports of a rift with Sam Allardyce.
Players insist they are behind Allardyce
Newcastle duo Shay Given and Steve Harper have moved to reject reports of a rift with Sam Allardyce.
A report on Tuesday suggested senior players in the Newcastle squad were unhappy with Allardyce's tactics and were planning a revolt.
Newcastle's two longest serving players, Given and Harper, have moved to rubbish the rumours and they insist everyone is fully behind Allardyce.
Nonsense
"The story that has appeared is total and utter nonsense. Sam Allardyce has the full backing and support of every Newcastle United player and we are all working together as one to bring success to the football club.
"At Newcastle United we have a player committee which is led by our captain Geremi, and which also includes James Milner, Mark Viduka and ourselves.
Many issues are openly discussed between players and the manager, as is commonplace at any club.
"Far from that being "player power" or any other ridiculous description, this is sensible and constructive communication and a key part of the process of helping to build a stronger football club which will take us forward.
"It is fair to say both of us are absolutely furious at what we have read today. It is mischief-making of the highest order and appears designed to unsettle everyone on the eve of our big game against Arsenal on Wednesday night."
