HOWE'S THAT FOR STARTERS

Isak helps Toon finally click into gear

- SIMON BIRD

REPORTS of Newcastle United’s demise this season may have been greatly exaggerated.

Eddie Howe’s side blew Chelsea away in 26 minutes with the kind of intensity that has been missing in their Premier League campaign.

The Geordies finally found a formula that clicked, allowing Alexander Isak to set up a win confirmed by an own goal by Axel Disasi.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca paid the price of making 11 changes – including leaving Cole Palmer on the bench – and the visitors were rattled by a superb start from Newcastle.

Howe’s side have been off-key in the league, mid-table and mediocre.

But this was a benchmark for a relaunch which hints at a revival and a tantalising crack at a Carabao Cup lasteight tie.