If Newcastle United's defence was once this side's Achilles' heel, well, now, it may be one of its real strengths.
Newcastle conceded 17 goals in Eddie Howe's first seven games in charge, but the black-and-whites have only shipped five goals in the head coach's last seven matches in all competitions.
Hours of work on the training ground and some smart recruitment in the January transfer window have helped turn this defence into a more solid unit.
