Newcastle will have a go at Manchester City, Steve McClaren says

Steve McClaren says Newcastle are starting to click and will "have a go" at Manchester City on Saturday.

McClaren is yet to win a Premier League game since succeeding John Carver in the summer, but last week's 2-2 draw with champions Chelsea was the high point of his time on Tyneside to date.

And the Newcastle boss wants his side to be fearless when they face City, who have lost back-to-back league games after winning their first five.

"After seven games we are starting to get a little closer to our starting XI, our system of play and our style," McClaren said at his pre-match press conference.

"We knew it would take time to bed in and get used to all the changes that are obviously happening here and we have suffered because of that.

"We are getting closer. We are progressing. Last week was encouraging, both on and off the pitch. Now I want to go to Man City and give a good performance, play good football with no fear and have a go."

Asked if last week's draw against Chelsea had eased the pressure on him, the former England coach said: "No, not at all.

"Pressure will always be there. There is a pressure to perform, to perform individually and to perform collectively to the standard that we want."

McClaren will have to plan for the game without Gabriel Obertan, Rolando Aarons and Massadio Haidara, who are all still missing, while midfielder Jack Colback is doubtful with a hamstring injury.