Mike Williamson wants Newcastle United to show more fight as they strive to recover from a disastrous run of outs.
The Magpies have lost their past three Premier League outings, failing to score, and conceding 10 goals to fall to ninth on the table.
Although centre-back Williamson admits the side is missing some key players, he felt it was vital for those representing the Newcastle colours to give a bit more on matchday after revealing that manager Alan Pardew went through the team during the 4-0 loss to Tottenham on Wednesday night.
"There needed to be some harsh words," said Williamson. "He felt it wasn't good enough from us. It might have come across to the fans that there was no heart and that's a disappointing thing.
"We have players missing out the moment, a lot of quality missing but the fact is that we need the fight and the spirit as well as the quality. For the next week and a half we're going to have to work on that and make sure we react well.
"Sometimes, the fans can be a little bit unfair but you can't say that over the past few games. They are justified. We completely understand their anger, their upset. Believe me, the players are feeling exactly the same. The lads are hurting. Now it is all about making sure we can convey our spirit and fight against Villa (next Sunday) when we've got to bounce back."
