Taylor - We are all behind Keegan

Taylor insists squad all backing manager

By Peter O'Rourke   Last updated: 17th March 2008

Steven Taylor

Taylor: Supportive of Keegan

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Newcastle defender Steven Taylor insists Kevin Keegan is the right man to lead the club.

Keegan has already found himself under increasing pressure after failing to record a win since his shock return to Tyneside in January.

Newcastle have found themselves dragged into a relegation battle after a disastrous run of form and they face a crucial game with fellow strugglers Birmingham on Monday night

Reports have suggested Newcastle are consideirng a move for Racing Santander coach Marcelino if things do not improve, but Taylor has backed Keegan to turn things round in time.

Aura

"He's just got that aura about him," Taylor told The Times. "He's just a massive icon, simple as that. He cheers everyone up. He cracks jokes, mingles with everybody. He brings that bit of confidence.

"Results haven't helped, but if you've had a bad day or are feeling low, he puts an arm around you. He gets you up for it. He has that special something when he walks in the room. He's got so much respect from everybody.

"There could have been no better appointment. I think Alan Shearer was probably the only one who could compete. The fans are still singing Keegan's name and I think it was what they wanted.

"We're in a bad position at the moment. But we're confident we can get out of that and the players are 100 per cent behind Mr Keegan. One win and you'll see a massive change."

Patient

Taylor is confident if they can secure survival this season they can improve under Keegan next season.

"The thing everyone keeps going on about is time," added Taylor.

"The gaffer has said that as well. It might take a couple of years to get things sorted, but it will be worth it in the end. You've got to be patient.

"We're going through that struggle now, but once we come through it we'll take off. Next season we will kick on."