Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor says they can handle the criticism coming their way.

Taylor believes the siege mentality it is creating is working in their favour.

He told the Evening Chronicle: "I have been here 10 years and that is what you get.

"People try to upset us and try to get in among the gaffer and the players. They will find any excuse.

"They mentioned the French players all last week and the gaffer.

"One week you can be getting pats on the back and within one game it can change. It is a bit sad really."