Reports this week from the London-based press claim Newcastle have been over-protective of a man who has managed only 21 appearances for the club in more than two years, but always seems to play the 90 minutes for his country.
Sam Allardyce: "It's just people trying to get between myself and Michael.
Allardyce Blames Media For Problems!
"The same has happened with Steven Gerrard and Rafa Benitez at Liverpool earlier this year - it's a common theme during the international breaks.
"For me as manager, I have 14 players away on international duty representing their countries, and for each and everyone of them, all I can do is keep my fingers crossed they come back fit and well."