Premier League: John Carver delighted with temporary role at Newcastle

Interim boss John Carver admits he is delighted the Newcastle board have given him the opportunity to take charge of the team until the end of the season.

Carver took charge of team affairs when former boss Alan Pardew left for Crystal Palace a month ago and was handed the head coach position for the remainder of the campaign on Monday.

“It’s definitely a relief,” he said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday's visit to Hull.

“When I got this opportunity four weeks ago the first two or three weeks were crazy. Then it settled down. When I got the call from (managing director) Lee Charnley to go and have a chat about the position I was absolutely delighted.

“I’m so proud and honoured to be the head coach of a football club like this.”

Native Geordie Carver has spent the last four years as Newcastle assistant manager and the 50-year-old has no qualms about the short-term nature of his appointment.

“I’m quite happy with that,” he said. “I arrived here four years ago on a four-month contract and within a week I got a five-year deal so getting a short-term contract, I don’t have a problem with that.

“I’m quite happy with these conditions and I have enough belief in my ability along with the guys. The good news is we are getting players back so our squad is getting stronger and I’m really happy about that.”

During his press conference Carver was also asked if he expected much transfer activity at St James’ Park between now and the close of the window on Monday.

“I wouldn’t have thought so to be honest, I don’t get involved in it,” he replied. “I’ve not had any conversations about it. I’ve had many, many, many conversations about other things with Lee.

“My job and my responsibility is to work with the guys on the pitch and I’m quite happy whoever comes in or whoever goes out to deal with what is put out in front of me.”