Newcastle United have hit back following claims that a dressing room divide has engulfed the club as they battle for their Premier League survival.

Following the club's dismal 6-0 defeat to Liverpool last Saturday reports suggesting a split, initiated by the club's large French contingent concerned with their own agendas rather than the clubs, had struck the club at the worst possible time.

But through statements via the club's official website and strong words from key members of the Newcastle squad, the Magpies have insisted they are "100%" together as they prepare for their final three games of the season.

"Every player is together," Papiss Cisse said. "We are totally focused on Saturday's game at West Ham and the two games after that. We have a strong bond and we want the best for our club, our manager and our wonderful fans.

"We are not happy about recent results. Nobody is happy when they lose, but this has only made us stronger as a group and we will come through this together. There is no divide in the team."

Alan Pardew
Members of Alan Pardew's squad have strongly denied rumours of a dressing room rift. (Reuters)

The report, originally released by the Daily Telegraph, claimed that a section of the Newcastle squad, predominantly the French contingent, had spent too much time complaining to manager Alan Pardew, rather than focusing on the club's battle to survive relegation.

With the Magpies sitting just five points off 18<sup>th placed Wigan - who also have a game in hand - squad disharmony would be the last thing Pardew and his coaches would need at this perilous time. But echoing Cisse's sentiments, midfielder Cheick Tiote has rubbished such suggestions, insisting the squad is united and prepared for task at hand.

"We want to let the fans know that all of the players are committed and we are in this together," the Dutch midfielder said.

"We will fight to get out of this problem and we know our fans will help us to do that. They are incredible."

As a result of the original report of the alleged dressing room split, Newcastle have decided to ban Telegraph reporters from attending matches and press conferences.