DANNY Simpson has paid tribute to the Geordie masses who roared their side to victory during the 1-0 triumph at Preston.

It was the second away game in succession that the Toon Army have travelled in their droves to play an instrumental role in a Monday-night victory.

And Simpson says that their contribution is not lost on the United players.

"It would have been easy for the fans to sit at home in the warm and watch on TV," said the loan defender.

"But they are mad passionate about their team.

"It's on telly, but to come here and support us like they did was great.

"It's even more satisfying, we've gave them the three points they were looking for."

Simpson injured his thigh at Deepdale but hopes to be fit for the visit of Swansea on Saturday, adding: "It's feeling tight, but it was just a precaution that I came off.

"I hopefully stopped myself from doing any more damage to it.

"I'm a quick healer, so hopefully I will get in today and see how it is.

"I just felt it get tighter as we went on.

"There was nothing that I felt go and hopefully I will be OK for Saturday."