Micky Quinn: 'Steve McClaren is struggling at Newcastle United'

Former Newcastle United striker Micky Quinn has suggested that Steve McClaren is failing to deliver as head coach.

The Magpies have failed to win any of their opening six Premier League fixtures and were knocked out of the League Cup by Championship side Sheffield Wednesday on Wednesday night.

Quinn has hinted that McClaren, who was appointed over the summer, has a handful of games to show that he can turn the club's fortunes around.

"Were we going to get the guy who was sacked by Derby, the wally with the brolly at England, or the guy who did a good job at Middlesbrough and FC Twente?" Quinn told talkSPORT.

"I thought he'd come in for a fresh start, especially with talented new players coming in over the summer, but I'm afraid it's just been car crash. And at the moment, Newcastle have got the wally with the brolly in charge, and the next three or four games will define his tenure.

"From day one he's looked under pressure, he doesn't look like he's enjoying the job. He keeps moaning that it's a tough job, but it's a privilege to manager Newcastle United! Yes, it comes with a bit of pressure, but you should enjoy it."

Newcastle host Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.