The Magpies have been embroiled in a relegation battle for much of the campaign, but a strong end to the season, including three wins in their last four matches, was enough to catapult them into the dizzy heights of midtable obscurity.
In large part, the presence of Arsenal loanee Joe Willock has been a crucial factor, with the midfielder hitting seven goals in his last seven outings.
The youngster was on target again at Craven Cottage, putting the Toon Army ahead before Fabian Schar secured a 2-0 win late on.
Speaking about Willock’s impact after the match, Steve Bruce said: “Watching him play, you can see a young player enjoying himself, and enjoying the freedom that we’ve given to him, the licence to run forward.
“He’s given us something which we certainly didn’t have before.
“He’s a very very good player. So I’ve said now for three or four weeks, we’d love to bring him back. He’s Arsenal’s player of course but let’s hope we can test their resolve.”
Willock himself added: "We’ll see what the future holds. I’m blessed to have had the opportunity to play for this wonderful club, and I’m happy it’s gone so well.”
It remains to be seen whether Newcastle will be able to extend the midfielder’s stay in the north east.
With the season now at an end, we’ve gathered the rest of today's Premier League transfer speculation below...

5. Hammers want Neto
West Ham are keen to sign Barcelona goalkeeper Neto. (Calcio Mercato) (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Photo: David Ramos

6. Magpies eye up Carter-Vickers
Newcastle United are one of the clubs in talks to sign Cameron Carter-Vickers. Bournemouth and Anderlecht also want the Tottenham Hotspur defender. (SBI Soccer) (Photo by Jacques Feeney/Getty Images) Photo: Jacques Feeney

7. Leeds open Harrison talks
Leeds United have opened discussions with Manchester City over a permanent deal for Jack Harrison, worth around £15 million. (Daily Star) (Photo by Frank Augstein - Pool/Getty Images) Photo: Frank Augstein - Pool

8. Leeds to miss out on Costa
Leeds United are set to miss out on Douglas Costa. The Whites were one of several clubs interested in winger, but it appears the attacker is on the verge of joining Gremio. (Leeds Live) (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images) Photo: Stuart Franklin

