Eddie Howe names the Newcastle United player who was ‘absolutely outstanding’ v Man City

Eddie Howe hailed the ‘absolutely outstanding’ performance of Paul Dummett following Newcastle United’s 1-0 victory over Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.

The Geordie defender was handed his first competitive start since August 2022 and was part of the back four, including Tino Livramento, Jamaal Lascelles and Matt Targett, who kept a clean sheet against the English and European champions.

Eyebrows were raised on social media when Dummett was named among Howe’s 10 changes but the 32-year-old answered his critics with an excellent, full-hearted display.

“I thought Paul was absolutely outstanding,” Howe admitted. “When you see him behind the scenes every day his commitment to Newcastle and the professionalism he shows is exemplary, that’s why I was so determined to keep him in the summer.

“He can still play an important role on the pitch. I thought him and Jamaal were really good for us. [I’m] delighted we showed our strength in our backline because it’s going to be hugely important this season.”

Dummett, who joined United’s academy when he was aged nine, was making his 206th appearance for the club having made his senior debut 10 years ago,

He received a standing ovation from the St James’ Park crowd when he was substituted during injury time with cramp after throwing himself in front of a Man City shot.

“He deserved it for his performance,” Howe said on the applause. “It’s always nice when you see someone work so hard behind the scenes and be so diligent and professional where they do get rewarded. I always believe life and sport does pay you back eventually and I think Paul’s had that reward for his performance tonight.

“We and him have worked hard to keep him fit and we know we’re going to need him this season. He’s proved tonight that he won’t let us down when we call upon him.”

Dummett will hope to retain his place in the starting line-up when the Magpies visit Manchester United in the fourth round next month.