Hughes: ‘Toon fans need to be kept quiet’

MARK HUGHES admits that Stoke City’s biggest challenge tomorrow is keeping the St James’ Park crowd quiet as Newcastle United look for win number three on the bounce, writes ANDREW MUSGRAVE.

The Potters’ boss praised the Magpie faithful for the support they show their side and conceded that his own side – unbeaten in three – will have to play well to walk away with all three points.

The Magpies come into the game looking for a third straight victory for the first time since October 2014 and Hughes knows the passion of the fans could prove United’s biggest asset.

“They come in big numbers,” he told Stoke City’s website, “you know they get behind their team if their team shows desire and good football which they always appreciate up there – from both sides in all fairness, so we will have to play well. But if we give ourselves the opportunity to put in a good performance by the way we approach it then they will know it’s a difficult game for them.”

Rafa Benitez is back in the dugout having watched from home as his side beat Swansea last weekend, while Hughes saw his side grab a point at home to Manchester United.

And Hughes is well aware of the effect a couple of wins can have on the mood around a club.

“They had a couple of results and performances which they were probably disappointed with,” he added. “But wins change everybody’s view and perception of how well you’re doing. They’re looking for three wins on the bounce so that is what they’ll use for motivation.”