Les Ferdinand uses Allan Saint-Maximin example to illustrate Newcastle 'bounce' since January window

Les Ferdinand heaped praise on a 'completely different' Newcastle United after their recent upturn in form. The Magpies' nine game unbeaten streak ended against Chelsea at the weekend, but confidence remains high in the black and white camp.

The former Newcastle striker was part of the punditry panel for the fixture on Amazon Prime and believes there's a 'bounce' in the Magpies' step after the January arrivals. Eddie Howe brought in five new signings; Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Matt Targett, Dan Burn and Bruno Guimaraes last month, and the turn around has been remarkable.

Their recent unbeaten streak has lifted the Toon nine points clear of the relegation zone and a win against the Toffees would all but secure their Premier League status ahead of next season. In contrast, Frank Lampard's side have lost their last four games on thee bounce and are at serious risk of relegation.

Ferdinand said: "You look at the contrast in the two teams. The situation was completely different when these two last played. Newcastle, obviously, brought in new signings in January and you look at them now as they get off the coach, there’s a bounce in their step.

"They believe they can go to places and win now. I believe, with the signings that they’ve made and the turn around in performances, this is a real confident Newcastle side.

"Everton are making changes to try and find the right formula, whereas Newcastle are making changes now and it doesn’t harm your side in any form. If we had gone back to November, Allan Saint-Maximin would’ve been the first name on the team sheet.

"Now, they can afford to rest him because they’ve got the team playing how they want to and there’s so much confidence in this side. You can leave your best