Cristiano Ronaldo was delighted with his hat-trick in Manchester United's 6-0 romp over Newcastle.
"It's a special day. I'm happy of course to win the game and to go top of the league, I think this is most important. It is also important to score, to help my team and today I'm very proud and happy."
With United rampant in retaking top spot, Ronaldo is keen for the champions to kick on and stay in top form as the title race unfolds over the coming months.
"It's important to stay at the top of the table," he said. "If the team plays like that, in the second half, I'm sure we are the best team. But you need to keep going like that. It's a good moment for the team and for the players."