EDDIE Howe said Dango Ouattara’s disallowed goal was a ‘welcome surprise’ as none of his players had appealed for the handball the goal was disallowed for.

Speaking to the media after Ouattara’s stoppage time would-be winner was ruled out by VAR and Howe’s Newcastle side drew 1-1 with hosts Cherries, he said: “I haven’t seen it, I mean it was a welcome surprise.

“You don’t expect it, we weren’t appealing, our players weren’t appealing. I’ll be interested to see the replays.

“We’ve had a VAR decision go for us, we’ve had one go against us, this one’s for us.

“But I think the crucial thing is there was just no time left in the game, so that was a massive relief for us.”

The former Cherries boss is yet to beat his former side in the league, but felt that losing would have been harsh on his side.

Howe said: “Bournemouth may have a different viewpoint, but I think a draw is a fair result from my perspective.”

He added: “Both teams can be content with a draw.”