The League Managers Association's panel, comprising LMA chairman Howard Wilkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson, former Newcastle boss Chris Hughton, Rachel Yankey, ex-United forward Les Ferdinand, Clare Tomlinson, Dave Bassett and Barry Fry, determined that the award should go to the Magpies.

And head coach Howe was presented with the trophy at the club's training ground, with his side due to take on Premier League champions and treble winners Manchester City at the weekend.

A brace from Alexander Isak and goals from Callum Wilson and debutants Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes gave United the perfect start to the campaign at St. James' Park last Saturday, earning Howe and his team what will hopefully be the first of several trophies this term.