By Craig Hope

PETER Lovenkrands says that the reception he received from the home fans before his introduction against Cardiff City was the motivation behind his double strike.

The Dane has endured a difficult period away from the football field in recent weeks following the death of his father.

But, on each occasion he has turned out for Newcastle United since that loss, Lovenkrands has been afforded a heartfelt welcome from the Geordie supporters - a backing he was quick to give thanks for when he spoke to nufcTV after Friday's 5-1 triumph.

"I appreciate that support very much and it is both a comfort and an inspiration," he said after taking his tally for the season to eight.

"Even when I was warming up before I came on the fans gave me a good reception.

"Then when you're about to come on and you hear that roar it really does lift you."

He added: "It's been a hard couple of months for me with the death of my father and the Newcastle supporters have been a massive help.

"Playing for Newcastle has given me something to take my mind off things. It helps going out there and trying to focus on other things, even going into training helps. But it's still very hard, you still get moments when it all gets on top of you.

"It can be really tough and that's when it's great to have the players and the fans behind you."