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The appointment of Eddie Howe looks a sliding doors moment for Newcastle United.

After sacking Steve Bruce, Newcastle missed out on top target Unai Emery and duly had to turn back to Howe, who had not worked since leaving Bournemouth upon their relegation over a year before.

While the appointment was rather chaotic in its nature, the story since has been one of rapid-fire success.

Howe has taken the club to a first domestic cup final since 1999, back into the Champions League for the first time since 2003 and restored a sense of unity between the fans and the players. There have been some fantastic nights, with the 4-1 drubbing of Paris Saint-Germain surely the highlight so far.

The players have spoken in glowing terms about his management and club captain Jamaal Lascelles has lifted the lid even more.

Newcastle news: What the players think about Eddie Howe

Indeed, the skipper has shared some interesting insight.

He suggests the public perception of Howe is that he’s a nice guy which, while seemingly true, is not the only side to his personality.

“A lot of people probably think he is really nice. But he is feared. I think he can do both, be nice and have the chats and put his arm around you,” he told The Chronicle.

“But if he needs to tell somebody you are going to know about no matter who you are. I think the way he manages everything is perfect. He has 100% respect of the players.”

Newcastle struck gold when they appointed Howe

Though Bruce aimed a dig at Howe before he arrived at Newcastle, Emery’s decision to stay at Villarreal was a huge moment for the club.

Howe took time out of work before moving to St James’ Park, watching the likes of Atletico Madrid train to try and broaden his coaching horizons.

That has worked. Newcastle are capable of shutting teams out, much as they are able to blow teams away and rack up the goals.

The balance in Howe’s coaching style has been reflected in how his team play. They can be nasty but they can also be free-flowing and pleasing to watch.

What a manager.