On loan defender reveals Eddie Howe reference from teammate prompted Newcastle United move

On loan Newcastle United defender Matt Targett has revealed his Aston Villa teammate Danny Ings gave Eddie Howe a glowing endorsement before his January switch. Targett made the temporary move to St. James’ Park from Villa on deadline day following Villa's signing of Lucas Digne, which pushed him down to second choice under Steven Gerrard.

Ings worked under Howe during his time at both Bournemouth and Burnley, with the now Newcastle boss signing the 29-year-old while he was in charge of the Clarets. And Ings’ advice could not have worked out any better for either Targett or Newcastle, with his arrival having helped the Magpies claw their way comfortably out of danger and towards the top half.

Targett has started 14 Premier League matches since his January move, of which Newcastle have won eight – with the 26-year-old helping shore up a position that caused problems during the first half of the season. And Magpies fans can thank Villa striker Ings for the excellent Howe reference he gave before his move, which Targett believes has certainly lived up to expectations.

Speaking to Boyle Sports EPL, he said: “I spoke to Danny Ings before I moved up here, just asking what he's like as a manager, and he was just full of praise for him and he loved working for him so yeah, I was looking forward to working with him - obviously knowing what a good job he done at Bournemouth and then he's come here and is doing just as well. It's been great working with him."