Nathan Jones has hailed Newcastle United as the 'most powerful' team in the Premier League after watching the Magpies defeat his Southampton side in the first-leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final.
Newcastle have taken a slender lead back to St James' Park for the return fixture next week after Joelinton fired his side to a 1-0 win against the 10-man Saints on Tuesday night. While Newcastle were not at their absolute best at St Mary's - the visitors wasted a host of chances before Joelinton broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute - they got the job done to take another step towards Wembley.
It was the first time Jones had come up against Newcastle since taking charge of Southampton and the Saints boss could not help but be impressed by a 'big, strong, powerful, well-drilled side', who he readily admitted were the 'bigger team' physically.
READ MORE: Newcastle send message away from cameras after Southampton and scary Anthony Gordon prospect
"We looked vulnerable in transition against the most athletic side in the league," Jones told reporters. "There's no quicker, more powerful, more aggressive side than them in the league.
"Have a look at them. I don't think anyone apart from [Kieran] Trippier is under six foot. It's not like six foot and they can't run - they are all really athletic."
In the same post-match press conference, Jones went on to state that Nick Pope was the best goalkeeper in the Premier League. The pair worked together at Charlton and, as far as Jones is concerned, Pope is 'categorically' the finest shot-stopper in the top-flight.
The Newcastle number one made two huge saves to deny Che Adams midway through the second half and ultimately kept his 10th successive clean sheet in all competitions.
READ NEXT
Anthony Gordon sees Newcastle glimpse, Alexander Isak moment and Southampton taunted - 5 things
Newcastle training ground upgrade is 'getting there' and new benefits may be felt in a few weeks
Everything Eddie Howe said on Southampton, transfers and injuries at Newcastle press conference
Newcastle star's hidden struggle as Eddie Howe makes exciting 'around the corner' prediction
Newcastle have already been 'paid back' transfer fee that may just strengthen Eddie Howe's hand
