HUGH SAYS WE'RE FAVOURITES?

Nov 30 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

Chris Hughton is right to keep the feet of his Newcastle United players on the ground, but history suggests an eight-point gap taken into the New Year will be enough. Apart from West Brom, no one is matching the unerring consistency of his black and white juggernaut.

STILL WORK TO DO

Marlon Harewood's two goals were timely but he still has plenty of convincing to do. Hughton sounded lukewarm on the prospect of keeping him for the rest of the season and the fact he was taken off on a hat-trick tells its own story.

ABSOLUTELY FAB-ULOUS

Fabricio Coloccini has not had the happiest of times since moving to England but the theory that he would struggle to cope with the physicality and aerial demands of the Championship has been disproved. His uncomplicated, elegant defending was a joy to watch against Swansea.

A SIGN OF THINGS TO COME?

Ways to ingratiate yourself with new supporters, part one: hare after every seemingly lost cause going. Fabrice Pancrate looked desperate to impress during his late cameo and if he can replicate that work-rate and desire throughout his Tyneside stay he should be alright.