Jason Tindall says Newcastle United delivered a performance Eddie Howe would "be proud of" during their 4-1 victory over Manchester United.

The Magpies went into the clash at St. James' Park without their influential head coach, who is recovering from illness after he was admitted to hospital on Friday.

Nevertheless, Newcastle produced an inspired performance. Harvey Barnes scored twice while Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes were also on target for the hosts, who boosted their Champions League qualifying hopes by climbing to fourth place.

Assistant coach Tindall - along with goalscorers Barnes and Guimaraes - says the squad were determined to deliver in Howe's absence, as they recorded the club's first league double over the Red Devils since the 1930-31 season.

"He was able to watch the game, and I'm sure it lifted his spirits," Tindall told Sky Sports. 

"He trusted the decision we'd make. We've been working together for a long time. He was able to communicate earlier in the week, then put his trust in everyone to put in a performance he'd be proud of, and the boys delivered.

"We had to make a couple of tweaks at half-time [at 1-1], we were a few yards off on our press. The lads went back out and delivered their tactical executions superbly well."

"When we went to the pitch, we said we will play for him," Guimaraes added. "He has been part of our success, he's been unbelievable for us.

"We missed him on the training ground this week. Hopefully, it gave him happiness and he's back for the next game. It's been a tough week for him."

"He's so influential throughout the week and on matchday," Barnes continued. "We knew we had a job to do without him. We said before the game, we had to put a smile on his face."

Barnes will tear you apart again... pic.twitter.com/4Pyp0eotHO

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) April 13, 2025

Newcastle will climb above Nottingham Forest to third place should they beat Crystal Palace in their game in hand on Wednesday.

Having already captured the EFL Cup last month - the club's first major silverware in 70 years - the Magpies are eager to cap a memorable season by securing Champions League football for the second time in three years.

"We've got ourselves into a fantastic position," Tindall added. "At the start of the season, you want to try and finish as high as possible.

"Every game's a cup final for us. We need to go out there, and deliver the performance that we delivered today. If we can do that, hopefully, that will be enough for the Champions League spots.

Meanwhile, Guimaraes paid tribute to Barnes, who became the first Newcastle player since Alan Shearer in 2000 to score twice against Man United in the same game.

"I love the way he plays," the Magpies skipper said. "He always works hard and tries to help the team. He deserves his moment. He's an unbelievable professional, and an unbelievable player."