Result is Hughton's focus

Jim van Wijk

Norwich manager Chris Hughton admits there can be little place for sentiment as he looks to leave former club Newcastle today with all three points safely back on the away team bus.

Hughton guided the Magpies to the 2010 Championship title when he was appointed full-time boss following a caretaker spell, only to be dismissed by owner Mike Ashley in December of that year despite the team sitting in mid-table and having won at Arsenal.

Following his harsh exit, the 54-year-old went on to have a successful spell at Birmingham, making the play-offs and competing in the Europa League, before taking charge at Carrow Road, eventually guiding the Canaries to safety in the top flight once again.

Hughton received a warm reception from the Toon Army on his return to the north-east last season, where Norwich lost 1-0, but maintains all that will be on his mind will be securing a positive result for his current employers.

Hughton said: "Yes, I was very appreciative of the response I got (last season), but you are there to ultimately take your team to try to get a result – that means more than anything."