10 Things We Learned From Newcastle vs Northampton

Every Newcastle United game is interesting at the minute. A new manager, coaching team, tactical set-up and five new signings has provided fans with plenty of talking points as the Magpies attempt to find their winning formula under Steve McClaren. Yesterday, Newcastle United faced Northampton Town in the Capital One Cup and once more the game represented more than what should be a routine win against League Two opposition - it signified hope. McClaren's appointment this summer has been met with mixed feelings from the Geordie nation but despite a careless blip against Swansea City the former Derby boss has had a relatively positive start on Tyneside. The Magpies sailed into the next round with a domineering 4-1 win over the Cobblers and McClaren's intelligent team selection was rightfully rewarded. McClaren who won the League Cup with Middlesborough in 2004 represents someone who understands the importance of domestic competitions and yesterday's performance demonstrated a ruthless determination to bring silverware to St James' Park. Mike Ashley's hollow statement to Sky Sports before the final Premier League game of the season stated that he won't be leaving the club without a trophy and the Capital One Cup seems to be the chairman's best bet before he jets off elsewhere. The Magpies were drawn at home against Sheffield Wednesday in the third round of the competition and another strong performance will be expected as Newcastle set their sites on reaching this year's latter stages. Here, WhatCulture.com/NUFC analyse ten things they learned during the match€