Newcastle Players "Still Smiling" Despite Loss To Club Atlas, Insists Steve McClaren

Steve McClaren has refused to be disheartened despite suffering his first defeat as Newcastle United boss against Mexican side Club Atlas - and he insists his players are "still smiling" after the loss. Moussa Sissoko's goal proved to be a mere consolation as the Magpies lost 2-1 to the Liga MX side in the early hours of Wednesday morning (BST). The Magpies paid for a woeful opening 45 minutes as they succumbed 2-1 to Club Atlas in Milwaukee, yet McClaren's men will receive a much-needed shot in the arm when new signing Georginio Wijnaldum's flight touches down on Wednesday.

Despite suffering his first defeat at the Magpies helm, McClaren was reasonably happy with most of what he witnessed. Most notably, the Newcastle head coach was delighted to see the on-field relationship between Sissoko and star striker Papiss Cisse continue to flourish. He explained after the game:

"You can see the smiles on their (Sissoko's and Cisse's) faces - they like playing with each other. They combine very well. "I thought Papiss was brilliant, holding the ball up and bringing people into the game. "And Moussa took his goal very well."

Newcastle have two games remaining on their US tour, which McClaren and his backroom staff will use to continue to instill a new philosophy into the squad. For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow whatculture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.