Newcastle has imposed a ban on newspaper reporters from The Sunday Express.

The club has angrily denied reports that Alan Pardew could be sacked if they do not win against Aston Villa this Sunday.

The Magpies described the story in last weekend's Sunday Express as "completely untrue" and giving the "profession of journalism a bad name".

They have subsequently banned reporters from the newspaper from attending any of their games or news conferences.

In a statement, the club said: 

"Journalists and newspapers which print such wholly inaccurate stories should be aware that there will be consequences for their actions.

"Newcastle United will not accept false, misleading, mischievous or inflammatory reporting such as this and will take appropriate action as and when necessary.

"To this end, Newcastle United can confirm that the Sunday Express is banned with immediate effect."

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