Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew will not back away from the criticism that has been coming thick and fast this season.
The Magpies boss is under plenty of pressure after a horror start to the 2014/15 Premier League season which sees his side sitting second bottom on the table with just three draws from six matches.
Some sections of Toon faithful have been calling for Pardew's head for the past few weeks, even performing a 'Sack Pardew' protest prior to the September 20 clash with Hull City, which ended 2-2 thanks to a late brace from Papiss Cisse.
But amongst all the negativity, Pardew is remaining defiant as he looks ahead to Saturday's visit of Swansea City.
"I'm thick-skinned," said Pardew.
"I don't ignore the criticism; it does penetrate me - of course it does - but I'm resilient to it and I want to prove people wrong.
"The effect on my family and friends worries me a little bit though. It's a difficult scenario, particularly for family. It's not nice for them - but that makes me even more determined."
Regarding his job at St James' Park, Pardew insists that he and owner Mike Ashley are still working closely together to get the proud north east club out of the mire.
"I spoke to Mike and the chief executive [Lee Charnley] this week and the message is: 'How much can we support you,'" added Pardew.
"I wouldn't expect any different, even if they were thinking different privately. They've been very solid and I appreciate that. The truth's getting lost in the wash a little bit; people think that I'm here out of arrogance or that Mike's being stubborn about it to annoy people, but we're not.
"I'm very fortunate to have an owner that can see we're fighting for the club and of course I'm thankful for his backing. But the fans are angry, there's nowhere to hide and we must get a win at some point because no manager is immune from not winning. I can't go on not winning."
