Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has rejected criticism of skipper Jamaal Lascelles.

Lascelles had been heavily criticised on social media in the aftermath of the 4-0 defeat at Leicester City.

However, the club insist he deleted his social media accounts before the heavy loss in the East Midlands.

Howe said: "I never give my team away but he certainly remains the captain.

"He has my full support in that role.

"I thought Jamaal was very unlucky with that decision personally, I did not think it was a penalty at the time, and don't now, I still don't understand why the referee did not go to the monitor to review the decision.

"I thought Jamaal contributed to us in a lot of positive aspects of our game.

"Obviously, we conceded four goals but everybody connected with the team, whether the forward line or defence has to shoulder responsibility not just our backline."