Alan Shearer's five-word verdict after Bruno Guimaraes-inspired Newcastle United win

Newcastle United made it three games unbeaten since the international break, claiming a 1-0 win at Craven Cottage.

And while, on the whole, the performance was a bit underwhelming, particularly in the opening 45, a Bruno Guimaraes-inspired second-half show made it seven points in their last nine in the Premier League.

The result very much ensures the Magpies stay in the race to claim a European spot.

While West Ham United won against Wolverhampton Wanderers, the Magpies kept pace with their rivals, who now occupy 7th and 8th in the Premier League respectively.

It’s expected, if England is granted an extra Champions League spot and one of the top six win the FA Cup, that 6th and 7th will qualify for the Europa League, with the Conference League place, usually reserved for the winners of the Carabao Cup, will drop to 8th.

And it wouldn’t be a Newcastle United result without arguably the club’s greatest ever player, Alan Shearer having his say.

The Magpies’ all-time top scorer took to X, formerly Twitter, to express his delight, in usual fashion.

Speaking after the West London win, Shearer said: “Much much better second half.”

And it’s fair to say few will disagree with Premier League 260-goal man Shearer, with United well off the pace in the opening 45, but letting their quality shine through after the break.