Smith joined Newcastle from Manchester United in 2007

Newcastle captain Alan Smith believes a key to his side's success this season was the way they coped with pressure.

The Magpies have already secured the Championship title, and will be presented with the trophy before Saturday's home match with Ipswich.

Smith told BBC Newcastle: "I think we've handled it [the pressure] this year, as we had got that expectation level back.

"I think it was everyone's cup final playing Newcastle this season."

He added: "Next year we'll probably have to play totally differently and be more determined.

"There will be set-backs and the characters that have been strong are going to have to be stronger

"If we can get a few additions of quality players to add to what we've got, players with the right attitude and application.

"Then you look at Birmingham and Blackburn, how well they've done this season, and you can't tell me their teams are any better than ours."

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