Newcastle United players Shay Given and Steve Harper have taken the unusual step of issuing a statement in support of under-pressure manager Sam Allardyce.

The Premier League club have picked up just one point in their last five league games and face leaders Arsenal today.

A report in The Sun yesterday said Given and Harper and another senior player had confronted Allardyce because they were unhappy about his tactics.

"The story that has appeared is total and utter nonsense," a joint statement said on the club's website (www.nufc.premiumtv.co.uk).

"Sam Allardyce has the full backing and support of every Newcastle United player and we are all working together as one to bring success to the club.

"At Newcastle we have a player committee which is led by our captain Geremi, and which also includes James Milner, Mark Viduka and ourselves.

"Far from being 'player power' or any other ridiculous description, this is a sensible and constructive communication and a key part of the process of helping to build a stronger football club which will take us forward."

Allardyce, who quit Bolton Wanderers near the end of last season, took charge in May. Newcastle began the season well but consecutive heavy home defeats by Portsmouth and Liverpool in November have changed the mood at St James' Park.