Rio Ferdinand believes Newcastle United's performance in the 3-3 draw with Manchester City was a textbook example of how Eddie Howe wants his team to play.
The Magpies became the first team to take points off the Premier League champions this season. Newcastle raced into a 3-1 lead against City thanks to goals from Miguel Almiron, Callum Wilson and Kieran Trippier, but they were pegged back by Pep Guardiola's side.
The game against City was Howe's 30th in charge of Newcastle, and Ferdinand believes the 'brave' football the Magpies played is exactly the style the 44-year-old is looking to implement.
READ MORE: Eddie Howe gives two Newcastle academy stars chance to impress ahead of Carabao Cup clash
"Since Eddie Howe's been there, they've had a ridiculous return in terms of points," Ferdinand said on FIVE. "They'd be like fifth or sixth or something like that.
"That game we saw is a clear picture of how he wants them to play. He wants them to be brave, he wants them to be on the front foot against any team they play against and they have players who can be gamechangers.
"(Allan) Saint-Maximin was exquisite and I haven't seen anyone give Kyle Walker a run-around like that in a long, long time. He was brilliant.
"We've just talked about atmospheres at Elland Road, but St James', I was there at the back end of last season, and when that place is bouncing - the fans there are some of the best fans you'll get in the world of football. They are so loud and they support their team properly, especially when they're doing well.
"There's a bit of confidence creeping into that place and when they get momentum, they're going to be a hard team with the backing they've got financially."
READ NEXT:
Alan Shearer shares Newcastle United transfer insight as he pinpoints priority
Graeme Souness gives Newcastle 'real chance' of breaking into Premier League top six
Triple Newcastle United injury blow as Eddie Howe explains Callum Wilson substitution
Kieran Trippier reveals Kevin De Bruyne apology and brilliant Fabian Schar free-kick response
'It was a penalty' Full Match of the Day transcript as Shearer and Defoe agree on big decision
