Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor believes that the issues between the players and chairman Mike Ashley have been resolved and they now stand "unified".

It appeared that the club's management were experiencing a difficult period with the players after the likes of Joey Barton, Kevin Nolan and Andy Carroll were sold during the year.

Despite suggestions of discontent ringing around St James' Park, 25-year-old Taylor believes that any problems have been dealt with, including the altercation over bonus payments.

"It was difficult because there was a separation, but now the club is unified at all levels," the Daily Star quotes Taylor as saying.

"This season, the chairman has been straight on our side from day one. He's sorted out the problem we had with the bonuses, he leaves the gaffer to do his job and there have been no hassles at all.

"There is a togetherness running throughout the club which is vital because at a club like Newcastle, you can't afford to be split."

The North East side currently sit in the top four of the Premier League table, on level points with Chelsea.