Frank Lampard on Newcastle's January bonus behind 'great progress' despite Everton's £74m spend

Everton boss Frank Lampard believes Eddie Howe deserves 'huge credit' for Newcastle United's turnaround and their January transfer business. The Magpies have pulled nine points clear of the relegation zone following a nine-match unbeaten run which came to an end in a controversial defeat at Chelsea on Sunday.

Howe was named the Premier League's manager of the month for February, helping deliver improved displays from the likes of Ryan Fraser, Joelinton, Fabian Schar and Joe Willock. The head coach also presided over a January transfer spend in excess of £90m, with all five signings making an almost immediate impression.

Lampard was appointed on transfer deadline day in January, and inherited mid-season recruits Vitaliy Mykolenko and Nathan Patterson from former Everton and Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez. The Chelsea legend was able to seal late deals for attacking midfielders Dele Alli and Donny van de Beek.

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The January deals could cost the Toffees an estimated £74m if certain conditions with Alli's deal are met, and recent reports suggest an alleged breach of the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules could lead to a potential points deduction. Lampard believes Newcastle used the January transfer window to their 'credit' and has praised Howe for the 'great progress' made at St James' Park.

The sides meet at Goodison Park on Thursday night, with Everton currently only out of the relegation zone on goal difference. Asked if Newcastle's revival shows how quickly things can change, Lampard told reporters: "Yeah, and that's football. You look at Newcastle and since Eddie Howe has gone in there, they have