Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew says the club's fans are suffering from "mass hysteria" over their poor start to the season.
Pardew is facing a difficult afternoon against Hull City when supporters are expected to demand his four-year tenure be brought to an end.
"This situation at the moment is almost like mass hysteria, to a degree," he said.
"It's really gone to a level which makes it really difficult for players to perform in. The environment for the players will probably be as tough as it's ever been and we have to accept that. I am hoping we can turn that around. I don't expect the start to be easy."
He added: "I think I am the best person for the job - but I don't think our fans agree with that.
"It has been suggested that I don't care about this position, and that I've got this long contract and that I'm going through the motions - nothing could be further from the truth. I was absolutely sick after the game on Saturday. I have been hurt this week."
