Eddie Howe has hit back at those who claim Newcastle United's survival is simply down to their £94million January investment on five new players.
The Magpies emerged as Europe's biggest spenders as they were backed in the transfer market for the first time by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.
Howe inherited a team in November stuck in the bottom three but lifted them as high as ninth last month to earn nomination for Premier League Manage of the Year.
Newcastle bought Bruno Guimaraes (left) and Chris Wood (right) in January transfer window
Supporters recognise the transformation in players who had lost their way under former boss Steve Bruce, but there have been accusations beyond Tyneside of the club buying their way out of trouble.