Steve Bruce declared 'I will never shy away' - and then gagged the written press.
For the first time in Newcastle's recent history, newspapers have been barred from asking questions of the manager.
Bruce has said repeatedly that he accepts criticism and takes responsibility for the team's run of 10 matches without a win.
But his move to silence the free Press - and accept questions from rights holders only - has infuriated supporters.
Fans want him to go and there were banners placed in protest outside St James' Park following the Villa surrender.