Steven Taylor is furious over claims he will quit Newcastle United if he is dropped for tonight's match against Derby County.
"Steven would never dream of making any demands on the manager - it's his decision to pick the team, and his alone. Steven has always respected the manager's decision, and always will.
"To say today is D-Day is ridiculous. Steven wants to stay, and the manager has gone on record saying he wants him to stay, so there's no problem.
"This report is a complete fabrication, and very hurtful to Steven.
"Steven's a Newcastle United supporter, and playing for the club means everything to him.
"He has turned down the club's first offer, but that's normal in contract negotiations and Steven hopes to agree a new deal as quickly as possible."
