IT’S NOT HOW YOU START, BUT HOW YOU FINISH

SO IT TURNS out that my opening-day record in the Premier League stands up to scrutiny. P8 W4 D1 L3. Not bad. Having said that, the 1-0 loss to West Brom last season at Crystal Palace — from a set-piece of all things — still hurts. We’re all looking to get off to a start because it gives you a bit of space, a bit of confidence. My favourite memory was as Newcastle manager when we beat Spurs 2-1 at St James’ Park with a lovely goal from Demba Ba (right) and a penalty from Hatem Ben Arfa in 2012. It’s funny how you remember the good ones but I’m trying not to remember a few shockers. One for Southampton at Plymouth is a memory best forgotten.