Everton manager Sam Allardyce has launched a staunch defence of his side's playing style in the wake of their 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

The Toffees boss has come under fire from supporters of late, as much for his tactics as his side's form, but he has insisted that the team is making progress under him.

"If we keep winning we keep getting better. I think eighth in the league compared to fifth from bottom tells you we're getting better," Allardyce told Sky Sports News.

"What was wrong with our style today? We dominated the game, out-passed the opposition. You have to be patient.

"You can't knock our football. You can knock some of the passing that goes astray buy you can't knock me for that, I don't pass the ball. We try and limit those mistakes every week."

Allardyce has been linked with the Goodison Park exit this summer, with Shakhtar Donetsk boss Paulo Fonseca touted as a possible replacement.