By Craig Hope

CHRIS Hughton admits that the Newcastle United dressing room was "hurting" following Tuesday's shock 3-0 reverse at Derby County.

The Magpies were left to reflect on their heaviest defeat of the season at Pride Park: a result which allowed West Brom, victorious at home to Scunthorpe, to steal top spot in the Championship table.

And boss Hughton told nufcTV that it was a disappointed group of United players who reconvened in the away-team changing quarters after the full-time whistle.

"The changing room was hurting after the game, that is for sure," he said.

"It was a shock because of our form this season.

"Away from home we have been able to put on solid performances and have picked up a lot of points.

"We always knew tonight would be tough, however, because Derby are in good form.

"But we have to look at ourselves; we conceded three goals which we are not used to doing.

"The players are down and understandably so. We thought we would come here tonight on the back of the win over Cardiff and get a result.

"For that not to be the case is disappointing, but we have a chance to put that right at Swansea on Saturday and we must now turn our attention to that game."