Florian Lejeune reflects on ‘special’ Newcastle United return as Eddie Howe shows his class

Florian Lejeune has reflected on his “special” return to St James’ Park in Rayo Vallecano’s 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United.

The former Magpies defender made his first return to Tyneside since he completed a permanent move to Alaves in June last year.

Lejeune, who is on loan at Vallecano, received a warm reception from the home crowd after being introduced as a substitute midway through the second half.

Vallecano were 2-0 down after goals from Sean Longstaff and Chris Wood but pulled one back when Lejeune was on the field via Matt Targett’s own goal.

“It makes a special game for me on a personal and collective level,” the 31-year-old said afterwards. “I think it was a good match between the two teams with a lot of intensity.

“It’s a shame we conceded a second because I think we had the opportunity to at least tie. In the end, we got back to 2-1 and we haven’t had time at all to tie.

“But on a general level, we are a good team. We all know this is a bit of a strange time in the season due to the World Cup, but I think we are doing a very good job.

“During these weeks we have played very good games against big rivals. The team is improving too.

“It is a moment when we are a little tired due to the workload of the matches but I think we are ready to push as much as possible.”

The Rafa Benitez signing was involved in a warm exchange with Magpies head coach Eddie Howe, while former teammate Jacob Murphy joined in the warm applause.