Hughton is a former international team-mate of Wolves boss McCarthy

Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton says Wolves and Birmingham City are the benchmark for teams hoping to survive in the Premier League after promotion.

Mick McCarthy's side finished eight points clear of the drop in their first season back in the top flight.

"They're a great example, as are Birmingham City, of a team who have come up and developed and added to the squad," Hughton told BBC Newcastle.

"They're striving to be stable Premier League teams."

Hughton will have the chance to reflect on his side's start to the season following Saturday's trip to Molineux, as the international break takes place the following weekend.

"It's a very long season ahead of us, but what will be welcome is that we'll have played three games," he added.

"Also to get the transfer window out of the way will be a major sigh of relief for most people, which coincides with an international break and I think most people in my situation will make the most of it."

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