Get the latest NUFC transfer and takeover news straight to your inbox for FREE by signing up to our newsletter Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Ki Sung-yueng says that Newcastle United's crucial win over Watford can be the launchpad for Premier League survival.

United are in good spirits ahead of this weekend's clash with AFC Bournemouth and after Ki helped set up the victory against the Hornets - after smashing a free-kick at goal to pick out Ayoze Perez - the midfielder feels the mood has changed within the Toon squad.

The victory against Watford came after 10 matches without a win but Ki feels the tension has been eased.

Speaking in the build-up to the encounter with Eddie Howe's side, Ki said: "It is all about confidence now.

"We have won the first game and before that we had a lot of pressure on us.

"Now we have a little bit more freedom to play.

"Of course, we are still bottom of the table but I believe we have enough quality to stay in the Premier League."



Ki has had to wait patiently for his chance this term with his opportunity coming against Watford due to an injury to Jonjo Shelvey.

Whether Ki lines up to start against Bournemouth remains to be seen, but he said: "I didn't expect to come on but Jonjo was injured.

"When I came on to the pitch the one thing on my mind was that I wanted to help the team win their first game.

"I am very pleased that I can do something for the team.

"It is very positive, hopefully I can maintain myself to get in the team until the end of the season."

Ki arrived in the summer on a free transfer from relegated Swansea City and reflecting on his stint on the sidelines, he said: "It is always difficult when you don't play regularly with the team.

"But I have to keep training hard and wait for my chance to play.

"Against Watford I had my chance to show my quality and I still believe I can show more of my best performance.

"Hopefully I get more chance to play.

"The more important thing is to help the team get more points."

(Image: Sunday Sun)

It was Ki's venomous free-kick that resulted in Ayoze Perez guiding home the winner at the Gallowgate End against Watford, but the South Korea skipper was not afraid to admit he was eyeing a bit of glory himself.

Newcastle have been poor from offensive free-kicks and Ki could emerge as a candidate to try his luck again in the next few weeks.

He said: "I tried to shoot and Perez brilliantly touched the ball so the keeper couldn't get near the ball.

"But I was trying to shoot."

The crowd at St James' Park dipped below the 50,000 mark for the first time this season against Watford but Ki revealed he has sympathy for supporters at the moment.

He added: "I feel sorry for the fans because they always give us great support during difficult times.

"This atmosphere is amazing but I always appreciate fans.

"Hopefully this win pleases the fans and we can get more and more wins at St James' Park."