'Mid-table beckons' - National media react as Newcastle United earn third successive win

Newcastle United secured their third consecutive Premier League win with a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa.

Kieran Trippier was once again the hero for the Magpies as his first half free kick was enough to secure another triumph to move them four points clear of the relegation zone.

Perhaps the only blot on another successful outing against St. James’ Park was the injury to talisman Trippier, who is set for a spell on the sidelines after fracturing a bone in his foot.

Dan Burn, another of Newcastle’s impressive crop of January signings, was handed his debut on Sunday and he produced an impressive defensive display to see out the three points.

Here is how the national media reported the game.

Craig Hope of the Daily Mail said: “They are now four points above 18th-placed Norwich and with a game to spare after this third straight victory, the first time Newcastle have achieved such a sequence since the days of the ever-popular Rafa Benitez in 2018.

“It says much, however, that the recent availability of the Spaniard has barely warranted mention on Tyneside.

“This is a team transformed under Howe, who joked on the eve of the game that a couple of wins had helped accelerate his North-East property search.

“With his wife visiting from the South Coast and in the stands, the Howes might well be readying an offer after this, a gritty win owing everything to the work the manager has done since arriving in November.

“Vicki was certainly left in no doubt as to the strength of feeling towards her husband from the home masses, who again chorused in rejoice of his 'black and white army'.

“Do not be fooled into thinking money has bought the turnaround, either. Yes, the magnificent January signing Kieran Trippier was the match-winner,