There is No Newcastle United “Player Power” Act

Newcastle United’s longest-serving players, Shay Given and Steve Harper today are trying to set the record straight for last night “Comfort Zone”. Both United’s senior players told the TimesOnline nothing could be further from the truth, despite the team having lost four in five games following Saturday’s reverse at Blackburn Rovers.

Last night reports of senior players dissenting over tactics, training and plans to stay away from the north-east over Christmas. But the two goalkeepers insist the story that has appeared is total and utter nonsense. Both players said Sam Allardyce has the full backing and support of every Newcastle United player and still working together as one to bring success to the football club.

Given and Harper also insist that there is constant communication between the players and Allardyce. Both said at Newcastle United they have a player committee which is led by Geremi includes James Milner, Mark Viduka and ourselves.

One thing that I see as important is there are an open discussion between the players and the manager. 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.