Harper & Given Reject Rift Claims

by Danny Wright

Newcastle goalkeepers Steve Harper and Shay Given have rubbished claims regarding a rift between manager Sam Allardyce and senior players at the club.

Reports in the media had suggested key players at the club were planning a revolt, but the Magpies’ goalkeepers have poured cold water on the issue and say they are in full support of their manager.

“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,” the pair told Sky Sports News.

Newcastle are experiencing a lull in form of late despite making a good start to the season, and they face a tough test against Arsenal tomorrow on the back of defeats to Blackburn and Liverpool respectively.

This has inevitably lead to pressure being piled on Allardyce, who has been cited as the man to take the long-suffering club forward and bring silverware to St James Park.

The two also slammed claims about so-called ‘player power’ at the club, explaining communication between playing staff and the manager took place via a players committee.

"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."

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