Centre-back Steven Taylor has found the time to praise the Newcastle United fan base, who he believes helps him and his team perform better.

Around 5,000 of the Toon Army look set to travel to the DW Stadium for the Premier League clash against Wigan Athletic on Sunday.

And Taylor will be hoping that the fans can transfer the same support they gave when the Magpies beat Russian billionaires Anzhi Makhachkala 1-0 in the Europa League.

Noisy

Taylor told The Chronicle: “They were so noisy and that’s what we need again.

“We can’t make it too welcoming for opponents at St James’ Park and need them behind us away from home, as they always are.

“They are right behind us and they can help us against any side.”

The 27-year-old has been highly impressive for Newcastle in recent games, which has prompted many to believe he deserves to be selected for Roy Hodgson’s England side.

However, he was overlooked by Hodgson for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, with the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Michael Dawson called up instead.

No fear

The north-east side have been handed a tricky draw in the quarter-final of the Europa League against Portuguese giants Benfica.

But Taylor insists that his side are ready for Benfica, and added: “We’ll take on anybody – there’s no fear for us.

“We will take on anybody who’s left.”

He and the rest of his squad will be hoping to receive the fantastic support from their 12th man as the Toon Army will continue to spur on their club for a strong finish to their season.