Howe 'pleased' with 'mature' Magpies

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was happy with his side's "maturity" after their comprehensive 3-0 win over Aston Villa on Boxing Day.

The Magpies rarely looked threatened, especially after Jhon Duran's first-half red card, and turned up their domination to find two goals after the break.

"Really pleased," Howe told BBC Radio Newcastle. "Very difficult game, Aston Villa are a really difficult team. I have a great respect for Unai Emery and the way they play.

"We scored early in the game, Anthony's goal was a brilliant team move and individual piece of skill from him. Of course the red card helped us but I was really pleased with the maturity we showed, especially in the second half."

The Magpies' recent good form has coincided with improved performances from Sandro Tonali who has looked comfortable deeper in midfield.

"Sandro was very good," Howe added. "Bruno [Guimaraes] was very good. Joelinton was very good, capped off with his goal. I was very happy with the midfield. All through the side, the parts of the team are functioning really well at the moment. I think we are in a good place so now we have to keep that going."

Listen to the full chat and more Newcastle reaction on BBC Sounds