20 Key Things We Learned From Newcastle's Fans Forum Minutes

5. Steve Black "Frightened The Players Half To Death" - But Has Been A Brilliant Addition To The Coaching Staff

Much has been made of Newcastle's new-look backroom staff under Steve McClaren, and particularly of both Ian Cathro, the next assistant head coach, and Steve Black. Black has worked with the likes of rugby World Cup-winner Jonny Wilkinson and former Magpie Joey Barton, but it is what he will do upon his return to Newcastle United that will really interest Toon supporters. McClaren is a huge fan of Black's - and, as well as revealing the Newcastle players were "frightened half to death" by the new fitness consultant, he has also had a massive impact already. Particularly, Black has focused on helping improve the players' mental state of mind. Vishal Vedhara, the Equality Representative, said: "We want to see passion. That's what's been missing." To which McClaren responded:

"Speaking of passion, when Steve Black had his first chat with the players, he frightened them half to death. Everybody knows him and his reputation and it has been well received. He's good at his job and has done it in every sport. He has told the players that we are here to help." "That's why Steve Black has been brought in. It's easy to constantly tell the players to do something but we need the right characters in the team, the right mentality. When you cross the white line, everyone has talent but you have to have courage. At top clubs, the shirt is heavy and you have to have the personality to wear it. I've seen it - players are fantastic at some clubs but at others, they can't handle crossing the white line."