Sorry! Rob Elliot issues apology to Newcastle fans

Steve McClaren’s side were beaten 3-0 at Goodison Park on Wednesday night.

Newcastle conceded two late penalties, both converted by the outstanding Ross Barkley, as the relegation-threatened club’s campaign hit a new low.

However, had it not been for goalkeeper Elliot, the game would have been over well before Rolando Aarons brought down opening goalscorer Aaron Lennon in the 88th minute.

United were second-best all over the pitch, and injuries to Chancel Mbemba and Paul Dummett – and Jamaal Lascelles’ injury-time dismissal – made it a costly night on Merseyside.

McClaren’s side are 18th in the Premier League, and two points adrift of safety, ahead of Saturday’s game against West Bromwich Albion on Tyneside.

“Obviously I cannot speak highly enough of the fans,” said Elliot.

“I can only apologise that we didn’t get the result that we should have got. I will tell them though that we will do everything we possibly can to put it right for Saturday.

“I think we need to look at our away form, because it is something we need to address.

“Even this season I think the performances prior to this haven’t been as bad as the form has suggested, but we need something to start getting us going away from home.

“But a massive thank you to the fans, and obviously (the) performance wasn’t acceptable. We hold our hands up to that.”

Elliot – who made a number of saves in each half – was the only player who spoke to the media after the game.