Harvey Barnes delivered a heartfelt message to head coach Eddie Howe as Newcastle outperformed Manchester United 4-1 to move up to fourth place in the Premier League standings.
Barnes scored two goals in the second half at a crowded St James’ Park after Alejandro Garnacho had equalized Sandro Tonali’s goal, with Bruno Guimaraes’ late goal securing a win over Manchester United for the first time since the 1930-31 season, which surely brought a smile to Howe’s face in the hospital.
Assistant Jason Tindall watched as the Magpies secured their fourth consecutive league victory, putting them just one point behind third-placed Nottingham Forest with a game in hand.
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who gave goalkeeper Altay Bayindir his league debut instead of the error-prone Andre Onana, saw some positive moments in attack but their defensive weaknesses, including Bayindir, proved costly.
Newcastle had the first chance when Jacob Murphy's shot narrowly missed the target early in the game after Kieran Trippier intercepted a pass. The hosts took the lead in the 24th minute with Sandro Tonali's goal.
Bayindir made a brilliant save to deny Alexander Isak before Newcastle equalized with Alejandro Garnacho's goal. The first half ended with both teams level.
Newcastle regained the lead early in the second half with Harvey Barnes scoring after a cross from Tino Livramento. The Magpies added to their lead with another goal from Barnes followed by Bruno Guimaraes’ strike.
Manchester United suffered a blow when Joshua Zirkzee got injured and had to be substituted, while Newcastle continued to dominate and sealed their victory with Guimaraes' goal.