Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has hit back at Jamie Carragher's suggestion about his team.

The Sky Sports pundit suggested that the Magpies were waiting for the season to end.

Newcastle are unlikely to finish in a European place in the Premier League this season, as they are 10th.

Asked about criticism of the team, Howe told reporters on Friday: “I was not aware (of that). Am I surprised? No, I am not. We are in a results-driven business and I wasn't happy.

“It is not nice to hear, especially after what we stood for last season. I think we were the absolute opposite of what you have quoted.

“But I understand emotional responses to games. I am sure the people who have written those words mean them. Now it is up to us to answer them.

“I was angry after the game. There was a lot of internal reflection, but for me to open myself up to that world is not going to help me or the players.

“It is dealing with my emotions and making sure I look at the game objectively so we are fighting back for the next game.

He added: “I think it's my job to support the players in the media, 100 per cent. That's always been at the very forefront of my mind when I'm speaking to anyone external. I love my players, I want to help them in every way, in their life and in their careers.

“Behind the scenes I will let them know in no uncertain terms if I'm not happy and they've got to do more. Have no fear about how I interact with the players behind-the-scenes."