So it wasn't a dream and Newcastle United have not only ended a 56-year trophy wait but also eclipsed two of the great teams in the St James' Park history books.

In lifting a coveted piece of silverware, Newcastle bettered both the Entertainers and Sir Bobby Robson's side of the early Noughties. The easy narrative for some would be to throw the money argument into the mix and it is true that Eddie Howe has had over £400m to spend.

That would be a major insult on the coaching work of Howe and his backroom team though. Howe is beyond meticulous and borders on putting in unhealthy hours when it comes to watching not only games back but actual training sessions as he scours footage for little nuggets of information.

But last night he allowed himself a night off. As he left the stadium holding hands with his three sons, Howe was in tears.

His hard work had paid off and didn't Liverpool know it. Arne Slot felt that his side had been outbattled and lost "the fight" on the field.

The secret for Howe was........

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