Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has reportedly backed under-fire manager Steve McClaren, and will offer the former England manager more funds to strengthen the side in January.

McClaren is still waiting for his first Premier League victory as Newcastle manager, with his only win coming against Northampton Town in the League Cup last month, and his side currently sit 19th in the table.

According to The Telegraph, Ashley is prepared to keep his faith in McClaren despite Newcastle's slow start to the season.

The newspaper also claims that the owner has backed managing director Lee Charnley and chief scout Graham Carr, despite their involvement in recent transfers.

The Magpies will take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening.