Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has revealed that some of the players in his squad are playing for their futures at the club.
The Magpies are out of both domestic cup competitions and are all but certain not to be relegated from the Premier League, leaving them little to play for, which has affected their recent form.
When asked if players were playing for their futures, he told Sky Sports News: "Yes, I think some are.
"Others not so, but I am still looking for a level of performance and consistency that will maybe get them into a World Cup squad and make sure they are a regular next season at this football club."
Newcastle face Aston Villa at St James' Park on Sunday.