Eddie Howe has revealed the one big change to life at Newcastle United for his players under his guidance. Only at the start of this season the feeling in the dressing room was that St James' Park was a tough place to play in the view of some of the players.
But Howe has transformed that mentality and from a position of players rushing off the field after some games at the start of this season, the team can't get enough of the post-game celebrations these days. Speaking after the 2-1 win over Leicester City, Howe said: "Our home form was always going to be absolutely key in us trying to stay in the division. We really wanted to try to create an environment where the players really were excited to play at home, wanted to play at home.
"I have to give the supporters huge credit that they have created that environment very quickly. The players now look forward to home games, and the ability to express themselves and play without fear.
"Even against Leicester when we didn't have the ball and we were under pressure, the supporters sort of understood that and stuck with us, and hopefully we rewarded them at the end with a moment that certainly will live long in my memory."
United beat Leicester thanks to Bruno's winning goal in the 95th minute against the Foxes. It was a goal that resulted in a bench clearance in stoppage time as players and staff celebrated wildly.
Howe said: "We don't score that many late goals that decide games. It was a brilliant, brilliant feeling for Bruno and for everyone connected with Newcastle."
So the big question for United now is whether they are safe on 37 points, Howe said: "In terms of being safe, we've got work to do, we've got points to get. You never know what can happen in football, it's such an unpredictable sport, but we're certainly in a much healthier position now."
