Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says it's important to maintain their team spirit developed this past season.
There is a reason why the Magpies' boss is desperate not to disrupt the dressing room with too many signings this summer and, instead, retain the spirit that has served his side well.
"When we came in, we were aware of our fixtures," Howe told Sky Sports. "We had a very difficult run-in - Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal and then Burnley to finish - so we were prepared to go to the final day.
"We thought it probably would. In some senses, we hoped it would because that would mean we would be in with a chance because, at one stage, we were so far away, but the players deserve enormous credit for what they've done.
"The consistency, the unity and spirit is up there with some of the best teams that I've ever managed and that's saying something because I believe I've managed some special teams."
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