Newcastle chiefs on same page over Eddie Howe future as expectations made clear

28 December 2023 , 12:33

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Newcastle chiefs on same page over Eddie Howe future as expectations made clear

Newcastle have lost six of their last seven games in all competitions, but this is by no means a shock to the club's senior figures.

They expected a significant drop off in their Premier League position in what is, realistically, the second full season of their PIF-funded project. Howe has been backed in the transfer market across the past two summers, delivering a top four finish last term ahead of schedule.

Newcastle's rise up the table has occurred quicker than many expected and, with the addition of Champions League football to their schedule, those at St James' Park knew this season would be a challenge and expected this season to be tougher. Their major domestic figures firmly see Eddie Howe as their long-term boss, reports the Telegraph.

A drop off in results has cast doubt over his future with foreign owners renowned for their lack of patience. The Magpies are working to a five-year plan which was at least two years ahead of schedule when they qualified for Europe's top table last term - and Howe is seen a central to that.

Since beating Manchester United on December 2 Newcastle have lost to the likes of Everton, Tottenham, Luton and, most recently, Nottingham Forest. Defeat to AC Milan in the north east also saw their European journey end after they were dealt a difficult group.

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Any hopes of reaching another Carabao Cup final are also over after defeat to Chelsea in the last eight, despite leading with two minutes to go at Stamford Bridge. Howe though has shown what he can still produce in moments this term.

Eddie Howe has struggled to get results at Newcastle during December (Richard Lee/REX/Shutterstock)

Both results against PSG in the Champions League were major markers of where the team is at. A memorable 4-1 win at home goes down as one of their finest European nights and they only drew in the Parc des Princes after a controversial stoppage time penalty was converted.

Howe also secured a 3-0 win at United in the Carabao Cup earlier this season. Even if the Red Devils have struggled Newcastle enjoyed their victory with a starting XI that included eight players inherited by Howe, putting to bed any idea he has been bank rolled.

The absence of Sandro Tonali, their major summer signing from Milan, has also been a notable blow. The Italian scored on his debut but is now serving a lengthy ban after being found guilty of gambling rules.

Samuel Meade