Newcastle release brilliant Eddie Howe clip as boss takes mic to thank unsung hero - Video

Eddie Howe showed his class after Wednesday's shootout win over Spurs in Australia, taking the mic in a post-match interview to personally thank Mark Gillespie for his "incredible" work behind the scenes.

The Geordie goalkeeper was the hero against Tottenham, saving their first spot-kick before we went on to win 5-4 on penalties, but Howe interrupted his NUFC TV interview to explain what a key role he's played in training.

As you can see (watch below), Howe hailed his unseen contribution off the field, praising his attitude to training, consistency behind the scenes and willingness to help the players, revealing how happy he was to see him star in the shootout:

"I just wanted to step in, if I may. The work this guy has put in this season has just been incredible," Howe said. "Too often we will always talk about the players that are playing, but never enough about the players who aren't playing, that contribute so much.

"Mark is one of those. His attitude to training is ridiculous every day. You are on the end of a lot of shots, aren't you!? Day in day out, but he is always there for the players to help them get better.

"You need a goalkeeper who is going to be there, train every day and be as consistent as Mark is. Those experiences (like today) for Mark...I'm so please for him because of what he gives every day. 

"There's a lot of players like Mark in the squad that characterise our success, so I just wanted to say that to Mark and share in that moment with him."

What a brilliant touch from Howe; a top bloke and brilliant man manager who showed his class and explained exactly why the club have signed Gillespie up to another one-year deal.