West Ham United matchwinner Kevin Nolan paid tribute to Newcastle United fans after victory at St James' Park yesterday.

Nolan refused to celebrate when he scored before halftime.

He said: "I can't thank the fans enough for the reception. It was absolutely unbelievable. I had an absolutely fantastic time here, I love Newcastle and love everything about it - my family and I made so many friends here and my boy is a Geordie.

"It was a perfect scenario to score the winner. It was quite emotional when I did and I had a little moment with Mark Noble afterwards.

"I left Newcastle on great terms. Alan Pardew was absolutely fantastic to me, we still share the odd text and just before the play-off final he gave me some great words and support, I'll always have that.

"I would never, ever slag off Newcastle because I loved every single minute of my time up here - apart from the relegation of course. But it was nice to hear and nice to hear the support. The fans have been really good to me, it's nice to be back and it's nice to see some old faces and catch up with old friends."