Steve McClaren insists he could have saved Newcastle from Premier League relegation
Saturday 12 March 2016 00:21, UK
Steve McClaren insists that Newcastle would have stayed in the Premier League had he been kept on as head coach.
McClaren was sacked on Friday with the club 19th in the table having lost five of their last six games, while winning just six of their 28 games this season.
Newcastle quickly installed former Liverpool and Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez as their new manager, but in a statement released through the League Managers Association, McClaren believes he could have kept the club in the division.
"I am obviously very disappointed with the decision," said McClaren.
"I appreciate any frustrations relating to the team's results and the club subsequently finding itself in a battle to avoid relegation.
"I remain confident, however, that we would have stayed in the Premier League with a view to building for next season."
The former England manager also acknowledged the speculation that he would be relieved of his duties, following Saturday's 3-1 defeat home to Bournemouth, revealing that his only focus was preparing the side ahead of their next match with Leicester on Monday Night Football.
"Whilst there has been a lot of intense speculation surrounding my position over recent days, my sole priority has been to maintain my professionalism and carry on with my work to best prepare the team," added McClaren.
"I would like to place on record what a privilege it has been to manage Newcastle United Football Club. It is a great a club - the embodiment of the city, with incredible supporters.
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"I'd also like to thank Mike Ashley and the Board for giving me the opportunity to manage the club, and the staff and players for their loyalty and efforts.
"For every supporter of Newcastle United, I genuinely hope the club can produce the results I believe they are capable of, between now and the end of the season, to maintain their Premier League status.
"Newcastle United is a club that must build for the long term to deliver what the supporters deserve - success and silverware."
