Newcastle United boss John Carver does not believe there will be any animosity from Sam Allardyce as he returns to St James' Park with West Ham United on Sunday.

The Hammers boss was shown the door after just eight months in charge at Newcastle United in January 2008 but Carver does not believe that will play any part in the Toon's relegation battle.

Carver said: "No matter who it is - and I know Sam has been the manager here and Neil McDonald is at the club, who is a good friend of mine - you want to win games.

"No matter who you're playing against, and even when people are saying there's nothing at stake, you still want to win. Your pride tells you that. This weekend is going to be no different.

"But I'm not bothered about what he's thinking or who is coming here. I'm just bothered about us, I really am.

"I've not spoken to anyone. Neil has sent me a text, but I've not even replied to him. He's my mate, but I'm not interested in West Ham United and Sam."

A Newcastle win will ensure safety but anything less than three points and their status in the top flight will then rely on what Hull City do at home against Manchester United.

The 17th-placed Magpies are ahead of the Tigers by two points but have a worse goal difference.