Former Newcastle United manager Graeme Souness has revealed that he has sympathy for current boss Alan Pardew.

Pardew's future at St James' Park is thought to be under threat following the team's disappointing start to the season.

The Magpies are at the bottom of the Premier League table after four games, leading some fans to call for the 53-year-old to be sacked.

Despite Pardew's job being the focus of much speculation, Souness hopes that the former Southampton and West Ham United manager can answer his critics.

"You have to be thick-skinned, have the support of the people around you and hope you have the players still with you," the Scot told Sky Sports News.

"If that's all in place and the board is still with him then he might get through it, but it's a tough time for him. Anyone who's been a manager would only have sympathy at this time.

Newcastle return to Premier League action this weekend when they host Hull City.