Steve McClaren hails "massive" Newcastle United victory over Liverpool

Newcastle United boss Steve McClaren has praised the work ethic of his players after the club's "massive" victory over Liverpool in the Premier League.

An own goal from Martin Skrtel and a late strike from summer signing Georginio Wijnaldum ensured that the Magpies claimed a vital three points at home on Sunday, leading under-pressure McClaren to applaud his team's endeavour at St James' Park.

"It's absolutely huge, absolutely massive. Once or twice we've taken ourselves to the brink of crisis and clawed our way back and that's what we've done today," said the Newcastle boss, according to BBC Sport.

"We worked hard, it is so tough to get a result in this league. We've crawled off the field, we've put in so much effort. That's what we need every week.

"The harder you work the luckier you get. Everything evens itself out and it's about time we had some decisions."

The win has lifted Newcastle level on points with both Bournemouth and Norwich City, who currently hold the two spots just outside of the relegation zone.