We took stick and deserved it – but hopefully we have turned corner now
PRESSURE’S EASED FOR PLAYERS AND FANS AFTER FIRST WIN, SAYS ELLIOT
ROB Elliot is confident that Newcastle United have turned the corner after their emphatic 3-0 win over West Ham United at St James’ Park.
The Toon goalkeeper admits that the Magpies deserved criticism after their poor start to the Premier League campaign and awful League Cup exit to Nottingham Forest on home soil.
However, he feels that United can build on the win against the Hammers and benefit from the last few days of the transfer window, with current players expecting new faces through the door this week.
Reflecting on the mixed start to the campaign, Elliot told the Chronicle: “We took a lot of stick last week and rightly so – we were poor.
“But it wasn’t a case of a lack of commitment or desire, we just didn’t get things right tactically and attacking-wise.
“We put that right against West Ham and it’s great to see because I think there have been a couple of question marks on the commitment of the players arose last week. “I don’t think that was fair. “That’s the one thing that you can’t question with this group of players.
“The quality was poor last week but we held our hands up on that, myself included.
“It was great to see what we are really about against West Ham, especially in front of our own fans.
“To win so convincingly was brilliant.”
Elliot will now link up with the Republic of Ireland for forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Serbia.
However, the longserving United goalie says he will be keeping a close eye on the transfer window.
He said: “Yeah, you definitely do. There is a bit of excitement, and there is probably going to be some movement in and out.
“What is good is that we have shown we are good enough despite the questions that have come our way towards the squad.
“Anybody who can come in and help would also be great.
“Then we can get settled and the other lads can move on.
“It’s not through any fault of their own. They are all good lads and hopefully they get what they need and it works out better for the club.”