Steve McClaren slams "worst performance"

Newcastle United manager Steve McClaren has criticised his players after what he described as the club's worst performance of the season in the defeat to Leicester City.

The Magpies' three-match unbeaten run at home in the league came to an end as Leicester cruised to a 3-0 victory at St. James's Park on Saturday, a result which leaves the North-East side just one point clear of the relegation zone.

McClaren praised the Foxes for their performance but expressed his disappointment with his own players, and admitted that his side look to be a long way from finding any consistency in their displays.

"That was the worst performance that we have had this season and it is very disappointing," he told BBC Sport. "I understand the frustration of the fans and we will get back on the training field on Monday to get consistency back in our results.

"That was nowhere near good enough. Today is an opportunity that we have not taken. There is still a long way to go before we get any consistency.

"I can give nothing but praise to Leicester. That is as good a team performance [as there has been] against us. They were hardworking, pressed and we could not handle the intensity. On the counter, they are very quick and sharp."

Newcastle next face a trip to Crystal Palace next Saturday.