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Eddie Howe is still determined to revive Newcastle’s chances of securing a second consecutive top-four placement.
With significant funding from the club’s Saudi owners, Howe successfully improved the team’s performance from struggling in the Premier League to becoming unexpected contenders in the Champions League last season. They outperformed usual contenders such as Liverpool (who they will face on Monday), Tottenham, and Chelsea, earning themselves a spot back in the top tier of European football.
Their visit was short-lived as their loss to AC Milan earlier this month dashed their chances of advancing to the last 16. This defeat, coupled with a string of poor performances, has resulted in them currently occupying ninth place in the Premier League standings.
When asked if our goal is still to reach the top four in this current campaign, Howe responded by saying, “If it’s achievable, we will strive for it. We have not ruled it out.”
“We are disappointed with our recent performance, especially in the last two games. If we had won those, we would have been in a much better position. I consider it a missed chance and I know that the players share the same sentiment.”
“We must focus on moving forward, not dwelling on the past. This month will be demanding and full of activities, but we must approach it with open arms.”
Luton and Nottingham Forest, both struggling teams, have suffered consecutive losses in the league. These defeats, which make up five out of their last seven games in all competitions, have put the Magpies in a challenging position for the upcoming month of January. They will face immense pressure as they strive to reach their goals for the season.
At the start of the year, they will face Liverpool, the current leaders, and then go on an FA Cup third-round trip to their rivals Sunderland. They will also play against Manchester City, the club world champions, at St James’ Park.
However, despite some minor grumblings of dissatisfaction since his appointment in November 2021, Howe remains determined.
When questioned about the club’s goals, he stated that their main focus is to achieve the highest possible ranking and that qualifying for European football is always a goal. He cannot speak for others regarding specific expectations.
I expect us to give our best effort every day and continuously strive for improvement.
I am not unintelligent, you are aware of the questions being posed and I believe that motivates me, of course it does.
Eddie Howe, the head coach of Newcastle, expressed his deep disappointment after his team’s 1-0 loss to Norwich.
Since taking over for Steve Bruce, Howe has made significant progress and has earned a lot of credit from the bank. The club’s owners continue to support him, recognizing that last season’s accomplishments exceeded their expectations for long-term success.
The person, who is 46 years old, avoided most of the compliments he received at that time. Now, he plans to use the negative comments being said about him as motivation to prove them wrong.
He mentioned that he tries to ignore it, but he is aware of the story. He acknowledges that he is not foolish and is familiar with the inquiries being made, which serves as a motivation for him.
Source: independent.co.uk
