Newcastle United's 'heart and character' pleases Eddie Howe in Brentford win

Eddie Howe believes Newcastle United are yet to hit their highest levels - despite creating an astonishing 26 goal attempts at Brentford.

The Magpies strolled to a 2-0 victory in the capital to climb to 14th place in the Premier League table.

They are now also seven games unbeaten and Howe is a strong contender for manager of the month.

But he called for calm heads after the game and said: “We're very happy.

“We knew today was going to be a tough game.

“I don't think it was our finest performance, but I thought we showed real heart and character.

"The red card changed the game, definitely.

“We had a lot more of the ball and in the first half we were a real threat, chasing goals.

“The second half probably wasn't as good, but we kept a clean sheet and did the simple things well."

When asked what he is now looking for ahead of next week’s game against Brighton & Hove Albion, he said: “It's just important that we keep performing well.

“If we can't win, don't lose.

“The mentality and spirit in the squad is really good, but we have to keep that up in every match."