Alan Shearer has admitted Newcastle United were perhaps fortunate to only concede four in Saturday's defeat away to Aston Villa on Saturday evening.
The Magpies headed to Villa Park in excellent form after seven consecutive victories with 17 goals scored in that time. That has seen Newcastle move into a strong position to qualify for next season's Champions League, but they got off to the worst possible start in the Midlands when Ollie Watkins opened the scoring inside the first minute.
Fabian Schar, perhaps fortunate to be on the pitch following a risky challenge on Watkins, was able to equalise shortly after but Unai Emery's side remained in control.
In the space of just 11 second half minutes, it went from level to 4-1 with Ian Maatsen, a Dan Burn own goal and Andre Onana all finding the back of the net.
Considering their recent run of form and the hectic schedule in recent weeks, assistant head coach Jason Tindall, still filling in for Eddie Howe who has been in hospital with pneumonia, has insisted keeping focus will be key.
"It is so important to stay calm and cool and we will do. We have experience of this last time out," he admitted in his post-match press conference.
"We stayed calm and knew what we had to do. The players are aware of that. We were under no illusions. Coming here today was always going to be tough. Our record here at Villa Park today suggests that.
"They are a top side with a top manager it was going to be a tough challenge. Certainly on the back of the week we've had. We will remain calm and focused." Shearer was also keen to not overreact despite the margin of their defeat to a fellow European chaser.
"Well done Villa," he wrote on X. "Much the better team today. Scored 4 and should have been a lot more. Bad day at the office for the Toon."
Despite victories for those around them, and others still needing to play, Newcastle will remain in the top four regardless of what happens. As such, it is very much in their own hands with full focus now set to be on the game against Ipswich Town next weekend, but it is unclear if Howe will be back in the dugout.
"I’ve not [spoken to Howe]. I’ve not had chance to see my phone since the final whistle has gone," Tindall told Chronicle Live.
"I’m not sure if there is any contact there, but as soon as there is any more news, then I’m sure the media team will update on that. Until I’m told otherwise, then obviously that [taking charge of the team] is my duty and what I have to do.
"I’ve said it before, the most important thing for Ed is that he rests and he recovers. The more he does that, then the sooner he’ll be able to come and lead the team again."
How to follow our NUFC WhatsApp channel
Did you know you can now get Newcastle United stories on WhatsApp? As well as our NUFC communities, we also have a channel dedicated to sending you the best news, opinion and analysis on all things black-and-white.
All you have to do is follow our channel on WhatsApp by clicking this link or you can find us by searching Chronicle Newcastle United.
Updates will then automatically appear if you select the Updates option on your WhatsApp menu and selecting the 'Chronicle - Newcastle United' channel. It's as easy as that. There are already thousands signed up, but remember to turn your notifications on so don't miss out.
