The Mackems were heavily criticised by Alan Pardew last week, but the Newcastle manager also made it clear Taylor’s job now was to watch what he said in future.
Alan Pardew: “Steven would not have started last week.
“I was not even aware of his comments before I picked the team.
“Then his comments highlighted the fact he was not playing, which he unreservedly understands were wrong.
“Therefore he knows he has to work to get back into the team.
“It was the right decision because Mike Williamson was terrific last week.
“It was one of the best games he has ever played for us.
“I was disappointed with Cheick’s booking on Thursday, but I am not sure it was a booking. I am not so sure he would have beent booked in the Premier League.
“Cheick is aware he has gained a reputation and the only one who can lose it is himself by improving his discipline.
“He has missed far too many games for us and he is an important player.
“If he was available then he would 100% start against West Brom on Sunday.
“He needs to be careful, but I am not so sure if Colo had made the tackle whether he would have been sent off.
“It was touch and go. I did not moan about it. I accepted it.
“Cheick has to accept it. He must understand he has to time his tackles perfectly.”
TAYLOR'S COMMENTS:-
Newcastle defender Steven Taylor has raised the stakes ahead of this weekend's Wear-Tyne derby by claiming none of Sunderland's players would make the Magpies' first team.
The two sides square off at the Stadium of Light at lunch-time on Sunday, live on Sky Sports, and proud Geordie Taylor is adamant his team are the stronger of the two on paper.
Asked how many Sunderland players would get into the Newcastle side, a smiling Taylor replied: "Not even one player. That is the quality we possess.
"Not even one player. That is the quality we possess. We say it all the time. Last year, even the gaffer said it, he has our team above Sunderland.
"We say it all the time. Last year, even the gaffer said it, he has our team above Sunderland.
"The attacking options we have can hurt any side. And then we have Shola Ameobi - the Sunderland Slayer. His record against them is phenomenal (seven goals in 12 games).
"However, it is all very well saying that, but we have to go out and deliver. That is down to the players.
"It is all right saying, 'Yes, the team sheet looks great' but you have to go and perform."
Asked whether he would ever consider playing for Sunderland, Taylor added: "I would rather collect stamps than stick on that shirt!
"I have not got any friends who are Sunderland fans. As for the players, I am friendly with one or two of them from the U21s, but that was before they signed for Sunderland!"