Speaking ahead of the game, Magpies boss Eddie Howe paid tribute to the club's fans for their support during a rocky start to his time at the helm, and said “It’s a difficult one for me, because I’m so appreciative of their support. I feel a little bit awkward, in that we’ve had some tough defeats, and their backing has been so good.
“A massive thank you from me to them, but also acknowledging, in my mind, we’ve got a lot of work to do, and we know that I can’t keep standing here and praising everything on the back of defeats, so I’m very aware that we have to turn the results around.
“Hopefully, they can just see the players re giving everything, and I think as a basic that’s what you have to deliver here.”
Speaking after last weekend's heavy loss to Man City, Howe said: “I feel like I’m repeating myself, which is something I don’t really want to do, but the crowd today, I mean…I just want them to know that it’s something that’s not taken for granted.
“It’s not an easy emotion for me, because I want to give them success and points and victories and performances that they can be proud of. But I really do value their support, because the players absolutely need it. I think they can see the players were maxed out. They were playing a team at the top of its game, especially in the second half. The players were committed to the cause. I can’t thank them enough for that response.”
Take a look at today's biggest stories from the Premier League, as the tier sides gear up for the Boxing Day action this weekend:
1. Dumfries discusses Everton decision
Inter defender Denzel Dumfries has claimed he gave little thought to joining Everton instead of the Serie A giants, after receiving offers from both clubs last summer. He was snapped up after impressing for the Netherlands at Euro 2020. (Sport Witness) Photo: MIGUEL MEDINA
2. Hammers favourites to land Phillips
West Ham are favourites to sign Liverpool defender Nat Phillips, ahead of Burnley and Newcastle. The £12m-rated centre-back made 17 Premier League appearances for the Reds last season, as they dealt with a major defensive injury crisis. (Various) Photo: Alessandro Sabattini
3. Barcelona close in on Torres
Barcelona are understood to have agreed a £55m deal for Man City midfielder Ferran Torres. The Spain international made 36 appearances for Pep Guardiola's side last season, and scored 13 goals. (Sky Sports) Photo: Soccrates Images
4. Los Blancos eye Gomez
Real Madrid are believed to be plotting a move for Liverpool defender Joe Gomez. The England international missed much of last season with a knee injury, and is in danger of losing his starting spot to new signing Ibrahima Konate. (BBC Sport) Photo: JAVIER SORIANO