Newcastle United interim manager John Carver has admitted that he is not finding the role "easy", but strongly believes that he is the "best coach" in the Premier League.
The Magpies have suffered eight defeats on the bounce under Carver's leadership and are just two points above the relegation zone.
Despite the team's poor form, Carver was given the backing of the club this week to finish the season with three games left to play.
Derby County manager Steve McClaren was heavily linked to the job, but the former England boss publicly committed his future to the Championship side on Wednesday.
"It's been a tough period, but I have a spring in my step and am ready to go for the next three games," Carver told reporters on Thursday. "I've got good people around me and I know I have support of Mike Ashley.
"It's not easy, I'll be honest. I can't affect what goes on in the media, nobody is going to turn my head or distract me from the job I have to do.
"I am a positive guy. I still think I'm the best coach in the Premier League. There's nothing wrong with that, but I still do."
Newcastle will take on West Bromwich Albion at St James' Park this Saturday.
Danielle Joynson
