Looking downcast and deflated, a despondent Eddie Howe told the media this evening: “I’m sorry we couldn’t deliver for the fans today."

The scenes inside Wembley before, during and after Newcastle United's 2-0 defeat to Manchester United in the final of the Carabao Cup, however, showed the new era at St James' Park is already delivering.

There was no shame in yesterday's latest heartbreak at the national stadium for the thousands of Magpies' fans who have felt angry, frustrated, even detached in recent decades.

Newcastle were beaten, but not outplayed. They were unlucky at times, not outclassed. They should feel pride, not embarrassment.

Little more than 12 months ago, the club were fearing for their Premier League future, and the long-term future looked bleak.

Now with new management, new owners and new signings – backed by significant financial investment – the future looks bright, and the impact this has on the city and region as a whole cannot be underestimated.

A memorable cup run came to an end today, but this is the start of something special for Newcastle.