Newcastle boss Bobby Robson thanked fans for their undying support after a mediocre season culminated in a 0-0 draw with Arsenal on Tuesday night.

Fans chanted Robson's name during the match at St James Park after the former England manager had received increasing criticism for his management of the club which boasts so much ambition. Yet despite taking control from Ruud Gullit in a blaze of glory, Newcastle have averaged no more than mid-table leading to calls for his resignation.

Following the match Robson said: "I'll fight tooth and nail for every player in this club and for this club in this part of the world. If I feel I have to challenge people, I'll challenge because my heart is with the club and anyone who isn't, I'm against."

"We gave a fairly admirable performance. It was a game where honours were shared. They've got the point that they desperately needed, we haven't lost to a very good football team and a big club and I'm satisfied that our players have given the public a game which they've quite enjoyed."

"They can be quite proud of their team, and that was very important to us. Had we not got a great performance from every player, we would have lost the game, but we got from every single player a great performance."

"I was engrossed in the game, but from time to time, you are aware of what is coming from the terracing. I'm just pleased for the team. I had a bit of a go yesterday, but it was just how I felt. I could be saying things now, but I had the strength and the will and the honesty to say it before tonight. We could have lost 3-0 here and it would have been very difficult for me to say anything."

-- Anonymous, May 16, 2001