Joe Cole insists Eddie Howe will be 'absolutely delighted'

Joe Cole has claimed Newcastle boss Eddie Howe will be 'absolutely delighted' by his side's tenacious performance after securing a point against AC Milan at the San Siro.

Newcastle were making their return to the Champions League after a 20-year absence with a challenging trip to the Italian giants.

AC Milan mustered 25 shots on the Newcastle goal during the match, but last year's semi-finalists were unable to make the breakthrough with the nine shots on target.

Howe's side had just six attempts in response, with their only shot on target coming in second half stoppage time.

Cole, speaking on TNT Sports, insisted that Howe would be happy with the 0-0 draw earned by his side on their return to Europe's elite competition.

'He [Eddie Howe} will be absolutely delighted,' Cole said.

'There was great tenacity from the players and commitment to defend, throwing bodies at it.

'On the ball, they were way off their usual standards tonight but they have come to the San Siro and got a point.

'They have got that off their back and they are back in the Champions League, forget the performance, it took them to the 94th minute to hit the target.

'It is a much better result for Newcastle than AC Milan. In the group of death you have to win your home games.

'They will not find it easy going to St James Park. Newcastle will take a lot from that.'

Newcastle face a challenging group on their return to the Champions League, with French champions PSG and German side Borussia Dortmund among their opponents.

Former Newcastle midfielder Jermaine Jenas, who played for the club during their last spell in the competition, believes the draw will help to relax Howe's squad.

Jenas suggested the result could settle Newcastle down as they face Champions League