DANNY Simpson insists off-field distractions will not puncture the momentum or unity of Newcastle United as they travel to table-topping Manchester City convinced they can spring a surprise.

The international break has been dominated by controversy over the re-naming of St James’ Park – ill will which was compounded in part by weekend claims Derek Llambias has been caught on tape criticising club legends Alan Shearer and Kevin Keegan.

On the pitch the team have generated momentum through a stunning start to the season, a run which has seen them go 11 games without defeat and teed up a mouth-watering top-of-the-table clash with Roberto Mancini’s side – the only team in the Football League yet to taste defeat. And Simpson is convinced by the time Saturday’s game rolls around the team will be the full focus of the supporters again – convinced their “crucial” support will not be dented by boardroom controversy.

Simpson said: “Whatever has gone on in the last week, the team will not be affected by it.

“It is not our responsibility – winning games is. We are still on the training pitch working as hard as ever.

“We are still working on what we are going to do at Manchester City at the weekend and we are still preparing for the games in the same way we normally would.

“We have really appreciated the way the supporters have helped us and responded to us this season,.

“I am pretty sure come 3pm on Saturday they will be behind us all the way and supporting the team.”