Steve McClaren: 'Newcastle United tight-knit after Tottenham Hotspur victory'

Steve McClaren has said that the Newcastle United squad are growing closer after their 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The win moves Newcastle two points clear of the Premier League relegation zone after two successive victories.

"Half time was a big test for this team. We've come in at half time before and the dressing room has been quiet and disappointed, but it was so vocal," McClaren told Sky Sports News.

"There was such a determination among the players not to lead down the normal path of losing the game. The response in the second half was fantastic. We grew, got stronger and deserved the win.

"We've had difficult times but we've asked for consistency and the last two weeks have provided that, on the back of a lot of criticism. It's brought everybody closer together to be perfectly honest, but there is still a long way to go and a lot of work to do."

The Toon will be looking to extend their winning run to three matches when they meet bottom club Aston Villa next Saturday.