Former Newcastle United midfielder Lee Bowyer has urged fans to get behind manager Alan Pardew.
Bowyer believes Pardew is working in a difficult environment.
He told the Evening Chronicle: "I think they were unlucky last year.
"Some of the things said about Pardew were a bit harsh, when you take into account they were in Europe as well.
"He just did not have enough of a squad to cope with both the league and Europe.
"Coloccini was out for a long while. He was the top defender.
"Ba went too and there was disruption at the club.
"When you throw in playing every Thursday and Sunday it is tough.
"When you do not have big squad, Europe is tough.
"Yet to finish fifth the season before was amazing I thought with the squad he had."
