Eddie Howe has given his gut reaction to Newcastle United’s 3-1 win over Southampton. The win puts United on the brink of the Champions League after they established a nine point gap in the top three.
After the game Howe said: “It was a much better display in the second half, it was always going to be tough and we didn’t take Southampton for granted.”
Although, Howe was grateful to two-goal Callum Wilson who saved the day after the break. He said: “He was outstanding like he has been whenever he has played this season, but he’s a brilliant player to have in the squad and what an impact.
READ MORE: Newcastle United vs Southampton highlights
“He’s always had the desire to score, it’s what he lives for, the team has got him in good areas and it’s his job to finish that off. I’ve managed him for a long time and it’s great to see him get the rewards his performances deserve.”
Despite Newcastle’s strong hold on a Champions League place, Howe was cool and calm and said: “It’s a tough league with tough games to come, we’ll enjoy the momentum and the supporters helped us a lot, we look forwards to Arsenal.”
Howe wasn't the only happy camper at full-time, with Wilson reflecting on a slow start before he arrived to save the day. “I think we started slow and sloppy," he said.
"We had a game a few days ago so it was probably down to tired legs and minds, we made changes at half time, got the crowd involved and brought new energy to the front line. Mindset was the main thing, we regrouped at half-time, tactically tweaked a few things and blew them away second half."
READ NEXT
Eddie Howe's 'waste of time' quip is bad news for Newcastle's ignored rivals Spurs and Liverpool
Newcastle get exciting £83m glimpse as Alexander Isak shows his true colours with selfless acts
- Newcastle anger sparks Alexander Isak magic and the Anthony Gordon flex many Evertonians missed
Everton boss Sean Dyche shuts down lazy Newcastle myth after '5 or 6' players were 'hammered'
- Newcastle's ruthless response to Everton goal, Jordan Pickford taunt and scary truth - 5 things
