Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper insists the players are sticking together amid the club's crisis.

"I've not heard one say that," he said. "There are no splits in the camp, no rumblings."

Harper spoke for the first time about the effect Kevin Keegan's departure has had.

"I think the world of Kevin and it was great to see him come back," he said. "He gets the best out of players. That's his best quality and he is a great man.

"Whenever a manager leaves, it is difficult for players, whether you love them or hate them, like or dislike them. It puts players and coaches in a period where they just don't know what is going to happen or who the manager will be. At that time, as a group of players and coaches, you have to try and get on with the job."