Gary Lineker says Eddie Howe is way ahead of the curve after Newcastle United thumped Brighton 4-1 at St. James' Park. In truth, it could and should have been by a greater margin.
The Magpies came flying out the blocks and had a 2-0 lead heading in to the break, before a somewhat nervy second-half was put to bed by two late black and white goals. The Toon are already enjoying their best season in the past two decades, with 69 points their best points tally in the Premier League since finishing fifth under Alan Pardew.
A win over Leicester City would ensure Champions League football returns to St. James' Park for the first time since 2002/03. Howe has taken the Magpies from almost certain relegation candidates into a Champions League outfit in just two seasons.
READ MORE: Newcastle United 4-1 Brighton: Wilson and Bruno seal it late on
The Newcastle head coach arrived on Tyneside with his stock lower than it had previously been given his relegation with Bournemouth, but the Toon boss has shown he's still got plenty to offer and will finish the season as the best English coach in the country.
After the 4-1 win over Brighton, Lineker tweeted: "Superb and important victory for @NUFC against another excellent Premier League side. Eddie Howe is way ahead of the curve."
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