Newcastle United have steered clear of the Premier League relegation zone thanks to the man-management of Magpies head coach Eddie Howe, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Howe was appointed as the Tyneside club's boss in November and he has brought an upturn in fortunes at St James' Park.

What's the latest news involving Newcastle?

Newcastle went into the weekend sitting 10 points clear of the Premier League's relegation zone, alleviating fears of Championship football heading to Tyneside.

The Magpies head to Chelsea tomorrow having not been beaten domestically since December 19, a run stretching back nine games.

A trip to Stamford Bridge comes after a 2-1 midweek win over Southampton allowed Newcastle to rack up a third consecutive victory.

The surge up the Premier League table and away from danger has also resulted in Howe being rewarded with February's Manager of the Month award.

After getting his hands on the prize, Howe was keen to hail the Magpies' supporters and highlight the key role they have played in Newcastle's stunning patch of form.

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What has Keith Downie said about Howe?

Downie understands Howe is highly-regarded by his players and those working behind-the-scenes at St James' Park.

Having interviewed some of Newcastle's biggest stars, the Sky Sports reporter believes Howe deserves a sizeable amount of credit for dragging the Magpies out of a relegation dogfight.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: "These guys are all performing to a very high standard at the moment.

"Speaking to people within the club, a number of players and having listened to what they've said to other people as well, that is coming from the man-management of Eddie Howe."

Why has Newcastle's form improved?

Speaking on BBC's The Footballers' Football Podcast, striker Callum Wilson admitted Newcastle went into the current campaign unfit.

Having replaced Steve Bruce in the dugout in November, Howe has now had time to improve his squad's fitness levels and he also took advantage of being in charge of the world's richest football club.

Thanks to the cash injection from the Saudi Arabia-based Public Investment Fund, which led a £305million takeover last October, Newcastle were Europe's biggest spenders during the January transfer window.

Howe splashed the cash on the likes of Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn and Bruno Guimaraes. There is no doubt they have made an impact when on the pitch and also boosted spirits within the dressing room, allowing Newcastle to play with more confidence and get St James' Park rocking.