The centre-half, who has been virtually an ever-present in our backline this season, was part of a newly-formed defensive line-up against the Magpies alongside Trevoh Chalobah, Malo Gusto and the returning Marc Cucurella.

Speaking after the match, the freshly-turned 26-year-old explained how the squad’s synergy has allowed for seamless changes in the line-up despite injuries and absentees.

‘In training, we work like this with Marc, Trev and Malo,’ Disasi answered.

‘We were prepared to play well together and I think it was good together. We need to improve again, but I think we are on the right way.

‘It is the perfect birthday for me. The team played well. We stayed together until the end and I’m really happy after this game and now I will enjoy it with my family.’

The Frenchman believes that the 'spirit' of the group was key, pointing to substitute Mykhailo Mudryk’s attitude, coming into the fold and securing the victory with a well-taken move.

Disasi continued: ‘The spirit was there. I think the spirit was great. We played together and we saw that we can achieve many things when we are like this. We have to keep this spirit because we will need this for the rest of the season.

‘When Misha came in, he made the difference so this showed that all the players can make a difference – we are all together! It’s a good message for the group. I hope that in the future the team will continue like this. We are a group and everyone has to stay focused.

‘We have another game on Sunday [against Leicester City]. Everyone knows that we lost the Carabao Cup final, but we have another chance to go to another final. We will take a rest and prepare for this game very well.’