Newcastle United’s former chairman Sir John Hall has called for the club’s fans to give under fire manager Alan Pardew more time, as reported by the Daily Star.

Pardew’s team are in the relegation zone in the Premier League, and have not won a single league game.

Their clash against Leicester City on Saturday represents a must win game for the north east club, with the home game a genuine opportunity to pick up a first win of the new campaign.

Hall recognises that the game will be important in terms of the season, but has said to the fans of the club, commonly called the Toon Army, that they have to give the beleaguered manager more time.

In fact, he has also said that the fans need to stop criticising owner Mike Ashley as much.

He feels as though the hostile atmosphere that has been brewing at St. James’ Park is a hindrance to the team’s success.

He said: “It’s vital the fans get behind the team for what is a must-win game.

“Of course, I understand their grievances but the Leicester game is neither the time nor the place to air them.

“That would be seriously counter-productive and play into the hands of the opposition.

“Players can sense when the mood’s not right in the stands and in our position, they can’t afford to be distracted.

“The side Alan Pardew sends out has to be in the right frame of mind and they won’t be if they think it’s going to turn ugly.”