Newcastle boss Howe struggled to sum up the ‘classic’ win

Eddie Howe struggled to set Newcastle Unitedis a thrilling 4-3 win over Leeds United in words after seeing his side come from behind three times to prevail at St James’ Park.

It was an emotional night on Tyneside following the news that beloved former manager Kevin Keegan had been diagnosed with cancer.

The fans chanted his name throughout the game, which proved to be the kind of reverse Keegan ‘Entertainers’ clash often produced in the 1990s, with high attacking quality and defensive solidity at the fore.

Brendan Aaronson looked set to seal all three points for Leeds when he hit his second goal of the game off the post in the 79th minute. He had earlier put Leeds ahead in the first half, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s controversial penalty in first-half stoppage time restoring that advantage after Harvey Barnes’ equaliser. Joelinton drew Newcastle level again in the 55th minute with a fine header.

But when Aronson dealt with Luis Hall’s cross in the box, Newcastle were given a third chance to restore parity and captain Bruno Guimaraes did just that with a 91st-minute spot-kick, before Barnes converted on the turn in the 102nd minute from the Brazilian’s cross to send St James’ Park into raptures.

Howe welcomed Newcastle’s character in the classic style

Barnes’ winner is the latest Premier League record holder and sent Newcastle to sixth in the tablejust two points outside the top four.

Speaking about the game to Sky Sports, Howe said: « It’s hard to sum it up. It was one of those classic games here where I don’t think we were at our best but we showed great character and the game turned our way at the end, which is rare for us. It’s great that it went the other way today.

« It wasn’t a perfect performance, there’s room for improvement, but mentality is the key thing. If you’re losing, you need that never-say-die attitude. »

« We were a bit flat at the start of the game which was surprising. We’re disappointed with that aspect of our game but maybe conceding helped us in this game because it gave us something to chase and play with a bit more freedom.

« I’m delighted Harvey scored the winning goal, a great moment for him. He’s done it before for us but he deserves it. »

The only sour note for Newcastle was the injury to centre-back Fabian Schar, who had to be carried off on a stretcher.

Howe told BBC Match of the Day: « Huge concern, I think it’s quite serious, it’s about the ankle. He went to hospital. He’s been such a brilliant player for us. »

Newcastle face Bournemouth in the FA Cup on Saturday before taking on Manchester City in the EFL Cup semi-final first leg three days later. Their next Premier League game is at last-week club Wolves on Sunday.