Paul Dummett came in for plenty of criticism following his post-match interview after the 3-1 defeat to Norwich City on Saturday.
The defender, who has been used as a third centre-back in the opening two fixtures, admitted the players weren’t feeling right from the warm-up, with many Magpies fans taking that as a dig at Steve Bruce.
However, the Welshman has since taken to social media to clear up on any confusion regarding his comments.
Twitter: Just to clarify my comment on the warm up in my post match interview, it was about us as players and as a team, not… https://t.co/8mHiqn9FA3 (@PaulDummett)
Dummett’s recent comments didn’t go down well with these Magpies fans, who quickly replied to the player’s post.
Twitter: @PaulDummett Paul, remember what Rafa said – “The fans are clever, they know what’s going on”.
Keep going but don… https://t.co/OOCXaLzcW7 (@davidpick1987)
Twitter: @PaulDummett Grow a pair Paul! Man up!
Bruce is out if his depth! Clueless (@TOONRafalution)
Twitter: @PaulDummett Paul don’t kid yourself. We will beat Derby’s lowest points record this season. (@questy88)
Twitter: @PaulDummett You’re losing the support of the best fans in the country and I never thought I’d see it (@toonarmy3)
Meanwhile, these Newcastle fans backed the defender.
Twitter: @PaulDummett Fair play for coming over at the end Paul, shame most went down the tunnel
we go again lad (@Jack__1955)
Twitter: @PaulDummett We all want you and the team to do well Paul, fight for it and prove the doubters wrong (@Rossco_K)
Twitter: @PaulDummett @UltraStarTime Head up lad
(@laurence_1999)
Read Newcastle verdict
Unfortuantely, events off the pitch appear to be damaging the performances on them this season.
Mike Ashley has received plenty of justified criticism in recent years, which only seemed to increase over the summer after losing Rafael Benitez and replacing him with Bruce.
The next four league fixtures are crucial. Tricky trips to Tottenham and Liverpool along with vital home games against Watford and Brighton could either prove to a much-needed catalyst in the Magpies’ season, or it could end Bruce’s tenure in charge at St James’ Park.
