John Carver: 'Players must grow up'

John Carver has told his Newcastle United players that they must grow up and accept the situation that they are in.

The Magpies head coach has come under fire following a run of eight successive defeats in the Premier League, which has dragged his side into a relegation battle.

Carver has said that he has read the riot act to some players as he looks to instigate an improvement in form.

When asked what he said to the Newcastle players, Carver told The Chronicle: "Grow up and take it on the chin. That's how serious I feel about it.

"We can talk and talk and I am the one who has to come in front of the press and talk. I have told you what I think and I'm an honest and straight guy.

"What I have said to the players is what I have said to them. I will keep some of the stuff to myself but I will also tell you some things. We need to grow up and accept it. The ones who don't want to be there and accept can stay at home."

Newcastle are two points clear of the relegation zone with three games remaining.