NEWCASTLE UNITED reclaimed third position in the Premier League table as their defensive qualities were once again to the fore in a goalless draw with Crystal Palace.

The Magpies have not conceded in the league since before the start of the World Cup finals, with their sixth successive Premier League clean sheet having enabled them to move back above Manchester United into the top three.

Nick Pope’s superb second-half save from Jean-Philippe Mateta was the key to their latest shutout, with the Magpies goalkeeper tipping the Palace substitute's goal-bound effort over the crossbar.

Newcastle's best opportunity came to nothing when Sven Botman headed Kieran Trippier's corner over the bar, but this was another positive result ahead of Tuesday's eagerly-awaited Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Southampton.

The Magpies dominated possession at Selhurst Park, although if there was a concern with their performance, it was that they faield to seriously trouble Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita.

Miguel Almiron fired an early volleyed effort into the side-netting after Joe Willock stood up a cross to the back post, but while Guaita made first-half saves from both Dan Burn and Joelinton, neither shot was especially threatening.

Guaita kept out another effort from Joelinton shortly before the interval, with the Brazilian’s shot through a packed penalty area following a corner striking Tyrick Mitchell on the arm before it made its way through to the Palace goal. Newcastle’s players wanted a penalty, but Mitchell’s proximity to Joelinton’s strike meant they were never going to get one.

At the other end, Pope was a spectator throughout the first half, with Newcastle’s defence containing both Wilfried Zaha and Eberechi Eze.

That said, however, Palace centre-half Chris Richards should probably have done better in first-half stoppage time when he headed over from a corner.

Botman spurned a similar opportunity for Newcastle shortly after the hour mark, before Pope secured a point with his latest excellent save.

In front of England boss Gareth Southgate, Pope showcased all his athletic qualities as he tipped Mateta's swivelled effort over the bar.