Alex Neil - Norwich City’s support can tip the balance in Premier League survival scrap

Fan power can propel Norwich City to Premier League safety, insists Alex Neil.

The Canaries battled to a 0-0 draw against high-rollers Manchester City in front of a raucous Carrow Road home crowd and a global television audience.

Norwich remain in the relegation zone a point from safety but Neil aims to harness that backing over the tense finale.

'That should bolster the belief,' said Neil. 'Belief is a big thing for fans and players and they rallied when we needed them in the second half and if they can continue to back us that can go a long, long way. The players needed them as the game wore on because they were a bit fatigued. I thought they were really vocal and the lads responded as best as they could.

'The amount of effort the players are putting in to stay in this league can't be questioned. The players put everything they had into the game and it was one of the first times of late they had a reward for their efforts.'

City's relegation rivals Newcastle United could clamber above them on Monday night with a win at title-challenging Leicester. Rafa Benitez will be in charge of the Magpies for the first time after replacing Steve McClaren on Friday.

'It doesn't make any difference, unless Newcastle win games. If they don't then the situation remains the same. It is about us,' said Neil. 'Newcastle have to still come here and Rafa Benitez is not going to win that game, the players will decide the outcome. It really depends on how they respond.

'I don't think it is ever nice when you see another manager losing his job. My thoughts go with Steve but Newcastle have chosen to make that decision. I think there are all different types of examples where a new manager provides a lift or that doesn't happen and they continue in the same vein. It is hard to say.'