Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce says he will "have to accept the criticism" after his side's Carabao Cup quarter-final loss to Championship Brentford.
Bruce has faced questions over his side's conservative style of play.
The 1-0 defeat by the Bees came after a 1-1 draw with 10-man Fulham and a 5-2 loss to Leeds.
"There's no-one more disappointed than me. I'm as frustrated, disappointed and bitterly upset as the huge following we have," said Bruce.
"I have to accept the criticism - which is fully justified - get ready for the challenge of a difficult Christmas period, dust ourselves down and get on with it.