Eddie Howe hails 'deserved' Newcastle win over meek Manchester United

Eddie Howe saluted Newcastle's stars for a deserved victory against meek Manchester United, whose players held an open and frank discussion after what Luke Shaw called an "unacceptable" display.

Sunday’s clash in the race for the top four lived up to the billing at St James’ Park as Joe Willock and substitute Callum Wilson secured the hosts a memorable 2-0 win.

Newcastle climbed above their opponents into third with a victory that saw Howe’s men gain a measure of revenge for February’s Carabao Cup final defeat at Wembley.

Magpies defender Dan Burn said they "owed them one" as they outplayed and outfought Erik ten Hag’s visitors.

"Really good feeling," Newcastle boss Howe said. "I thought we fully deserved the win. Really good performance from the team.

"I felt we prepared really well. What I mean by that is how well the players have trained during the international break, been really pleased with what they’ve delivered.

"When you see that behind the scenes you hope for a performance that matches what the players have given and I thought we got that today.

"We had to be patient, we created a number of chances we didn’t take but delighted with the two we did get.

"I know a lot of people will make a lot out of (the final). It wasn’t on our mind today. It was about winning the game that we needed to win in the league."

Howe attempted to brush aside talk about Champions League qualification in the press conference, which he ended by saying "we can’t let this be the high of our season".

But he was more forthcoming when Ten Hag’s comments suggesting Newcastle waste time were put to him.

"I’m pleased you brought that up actually because I want to make something very clear: we want the ball in play," Howe said.

"We play a quick game. I don’t