Newcastle cancel 'inappropriate' end-of-season awards

Caretaker coach John Carver has guided Newcastle to two wins from 18

Relegation-threatened Newcastle have cancelled an end-of-season awards night because of the position they are in.

The fundraiser event was scheduled for next Wednesday, but their top-flight status could still be in the balance if Saturday's results do not go their way.

"It would not be appropriate to be celebrating the season and collecting awards when our focus is securing Premier League status," the club said.

The club, in 17th place, do not plan to have a summer party either.

The Magpies are two points above the relegation zone and face QPR this weekend. If they win and 18th place Hull fail to beat Tottenham then their Premier League status will be secured with one fixture remaining.

"The club would like to extend its apologies for any inconvenience caused to those businesses who had purchased tables to support the event, but we hope that you can appreciate our decision has not been taken lightly," the club's statement added.

"We will work with the [charity] Newcastle United Foundation to find another opportunity to support them to raise funds for their outstanding work, which engages with over 50,000 people in our community."