Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew admits victory over Fulham was significant after losing Joey Barton to QPR.
Toon responded to the sale with an impressive win over the Cottagers.
Asked how important it was to win in the wake of Barton's departure, Pardew said: "It is significant because he is obviously a large personality, but the club is always bigger than the individual, always, and it's now about other players making their reputation here.
"Joey was great in his time here, especially under me. I enjoyed working with him, contrary to some things you hear - and this and that.
"We had a great relationship and I wish him well. For us, though, we move on and that's how football is. It moves very, very quickly.
"We have got seven points out of a really tough programme and we are pleased with that."
