Obviously we cannot draw a comparison between Keegan's team and this one, because the French lads have hardly had time to get their slippers out of the case.
But the smile is back amongst the Geordies, and there is a feeling around Tyneside that we are seeing the makings of something special.
Steven Taylor: "The French lads give it their all, and I think the fans appreciate that.
"The way Yoann Gouffran chases back is unbelievable.
"He was so tired after the game.
"But that's what it's all about - doing everything for the cause.
"I think the boys did that against Chelsea. And we can do it again at Spurs.
"For me, it was like a breath of fresh air seeing what they're all about on the training ground.
"Even when we went 2-1 down, the winning mentality and the belief was still there.
"When we got back into the game at 2-2, I thought it would be a draw if I'm honest. Sissoko - the powerhouse - never gave up.
"He caused them problems all afternoon. It was exciting.
"It was just electric from our fans. I hadn't had that feeling in a long time in the last few minutes.
"You heard the roar with everyone behind us. And that kept us going. We've got players coming back from injury. I think it's a good start.
"We've got a winning mentality back.
"We couldn't do anything about the goals - you've just got to hold your hands up and accept them.
"It was a touch of class from Mata for the second. It was a painful one.
"We knew that with the players we've got, we just needed a bit of luck. We got that. And now hopefully it continues in the last 13 games."