Steve Bruce has insisted Newcastle's revival began before new coach Graeme Jones arrived.
The under-pressure Toon chief handed over the reins to Jones who took training on Friday, inspiring the Geordies to beat Everton.
That ended an 11 game winless run and lifted the gloom on Tyneside ahead of Tuesday night's late clash with Crystal Palace.
Jones has been touted as a possible replacement for Bruce, and the former Bournemouth coach says he has arrived as a “neutral”.
Asked about Jones' immediate impact, Bruce said: “Graeme has worked a couple of days with us.
“Personally I think we saw improvements in the midweek game against Leeds. I saw a slight improvement in us against Aston Villa in the second half.
"For the past two weeks there have been signs but what you need to do it is put it all together and of course, get your big players on the pitch and that is what we have been able to do.
“So yes Graeme will be a welcome addition to what we are trying to do, let's hope it continues.”
Asked about a “new” diamond formation Bruce said: “Did we use a diamond formation? You tell me. Yous are the experts. You can tell me!
“We have had a good performance. Graeme has been here 48 hours, of course, and has had a little bit of an input into what we are trying to achieve. I said after Sheffield United we would change.
“Since that awful night at Sheff U I said we had to change. When you implement chance sometimes you don't get immediate results. I feel more comfortable in what we are trying to do.
“I left it along (the formation) for so long. There have been bits and pieces of change. I have been reluctant because of the players we have at the club but they are buying into it. Some would say after 18 months here they should. This is the way forward and the way will be, and it is what people want to see.
“We played very well at the weekend. Can we add to that victory? We need that bravery.”
Asked what his reaction was to Jones taking much of the credit among fans for the Goodison Park victory, Bruce said: “An inspired choice,” before ending his press conference.
