"At the start of the season I thought we could make eighth, but our rise has been dramatic. I have to say I think it's magnificent.
"We've done very well. We finished 11th last year and we've jumped seven places up to fourth.
"Outside the top three teams, we've probably been the country's favourite team because we've scored 102 goals now including the Intertoto Cup.
"I think the Champions League is where we belong. The North-East is a big footballing area. We should be able to persuade many more players to come to Newcastle but I'm proud of the ones I already have."