Sam Allardyce has insisted that Newcastle United's players are more to blame than manager John Carver for their position in the Premier League.
The Magpies has gradually slipped down the standings since Alan Pardew's departure in January, leaving them in danger of being relegated this weekend.
Allardyce, who takes his West Ham United side to his former club on Sunday, said at his pre-match press conference: "I'm not sure they've played that poorly. The ultimate situation is, is that you can play as well as you like, but if you don't wins you get put under severe pressure. Wins can boost confidence but a couple of defeats can destroy it.
"As a manager, that is the tough side of the game, trying to restore the confidence. That has been a hugely difficult task for John. He's a great guy, he is Newcastle through-and-through, he loves the club from top to bottom. But the players haven't done what they should have done for him and themselves.
"That happens, surprises happen at this level, that's why it's the best league in the world. Apart from the top boys, we can all be vulnerable to relegation at some stage."
Newcastle will avoid relegation if they beat the Hammers, or Manchester United avoid defeat at Hull City.
Sian Cowper
