John Carver has refused to rule out a top-10 finish in the Premier League for Newcastle United this campaign after being placed in charge until the end of the season.

The 50-year-old has been tasked with guiding the Magpies through until the summer months, when a permanent appointment is expected to be made.

There have been suggestions that Newcastle's campaign is on the brink of completely unravelling under the former number two, although Carver insists that the only way is up for his side.

"I am quite excited now, and I know that is a bit of a pressurised question on me," he told reporters. "But I believe I can with the players coming back into the squad now.

Asked if a top-half finish was possible, he added: "Other than Steven Taylor – who is out long term – we have almost got everyone close within two or three weeks, give or take not losing anybody. With a fully fit squad, why not?"

Newcastle are currently 11th in the league table having taken just four points from the last 21 on offer.