Newcastle United Football Club News

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52,193

Sam blast inspires Taylor

31 Oct 2007 - 08:55:45

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Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor claims he has been inspired and not upset by recent criticism from manager Sam Allardyce.

The England Under-21 skipper was dropped from the starting line-up after last month's 3-1 defeat by Manchester City and has sat out the last three matches.

But Taylor insists the criticism of he and his defensive colleagues by the Magpies boss has made him determined to force his way back into Allardyce's plans.

"I don't know what all the fuss is about," he told the Newccastle Evening Chronicle.

"I'm a big boy now and if this is what the manager said then I will take it all on the chin.

"This is all part and parcel of being a professional footballer. The manager picks the team and I will always respect his decisions.

"In any case, I am sure a lot worse is going to happen to me in my career in the next few years.

"I love Newcastle United. I am a Geordie. This is my club and this is where I belong.

"All I want to do is to get my head down and fight to get my place back."