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Steve McClaren has banned Newcastle players from swearing.

Newcastle have had plenty to curse about in recent seasons, but the players won’t be turning the air blue this season.

The F-word and worse are now off-limits, even at times of frustration, for players and staff.

The measure is one of a strict raft of new rules, including a mobile phone ban while at work, to tighten discipline and concentration.

New boss McClaren is demanding a new level of professionalism from his squad, as he looks to transform players haunted by relegation last season.

In pictures — Newcastle in pre-season training:

Two players were sent home from their first day of pre-season training because they were five minutes late reporting in.

That move has set a new tone behind the scenes at their Darsley Park training base – with McClaren promising everyone a clean slate and a fresh chance to impress.

McClaren is looking to revive the Geordies and threw the doors open on Thursday to show the new regime in action, before admitting United are chasing at least three top players this summer.