Barry Moat submits written offer to Mike Ashley

Oct 6 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

Many feared the Magpies would struggle to mount any sort of promotion push this season because of the demoralising effect of relegation and the turmoil in the boardroom.

But Hughton – who has been named Championship manager of the month two months running – has done a tremendous job with the support of Colin Calderwood and the players.

He said: “I am delighted to still be top. When you’ve had a moment to settle down after, what was for me, a frustrating afternoon.

“It was not the result we were after, but what you have to do, as soon as you can, is assess where we are. And the bigger package is the main thing.

“We have come into a league we didn’t know much about and at this stage, being three points clear at the top of the table, speaks volumes for the approach of this bunch of lads.

“That is the most important thing. We can go into the international break now, get a few players back and give them a few days rest as well because the games will come thick and fast again after that.” Meanwhile, Ryan Taylor (pictured right) has praised Hughton for the way he has managed to protect the players from the constant speculation regarding the future of the club.

He said: “You can turn the TV on any day you want and I guarantee there will be something on it about what is happening off the pitch at Newcastle United. But thankfully Chris Hughton is so focused on his job that he does not let the outside world distract him.

“He has won two manager of the month awards now.

“That’s a tremendous feat, especially at Newcastle where it is all going a little bit weird off the pitch.”