Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley remains fully behind underfire manager Sam Allardyce.

Ashley again sat among supporters at Wigan this week, taking his seat behind the goal with family and friends, and he was left in no doubt about the feelings of loyal travelling fans who offer a rational view of the club's plight.

The Daily Mail says Allardyce has the full support of Ashley and his chairman, Chris Mort, despite the unexpected setbacks against Derby (2-2) and Wigan (1-0 defeat) that followed a promising 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

Allardyce was not Ashley's appointment, which adds to the perception that he is under more pressure with every defeat, but the owner has invested heavily and funded transfers within days of clinching the deal for the debt-ridden club.