Jamie Reuben reveals what Eddie Howe said to wow board in Newcastle United interview

Jamie Reuben has revealed that Howe’s incredible level of ‘preparation’ and ‘knowledge’ of the squad was what gave him the edge when they were interviewing potential managers back in 2021.

When Howe was given the job, a lot of questions were raised about his previous relegation with Bournemouth and period out of work, but he has since proven all the doubters wrong and gone above and beyond what was expected of him.

Reuben explains how the entire board were very impressed with his vast understanding of our players when interviewed for the role, using specific players’ names to explain his plans; where as other candidates were far more generic when presenting their plans to our board.

Speaking on the Business of Sport podcast – which was released in full today – here’s what Reuben said when asked about Howe’s appointment:

“We ran quite a detailed process. We pointed Graeme Jones as caretaker manager, to give us a bit of room, even though we were under pressure to make the right decision.

“We interviewed very high calibre managers and we came close to appointing very high calibre managers.

“I think what stood out from Eddie Howe’s interview, which captivated the entire board was just how well prepared he was for that interview. So the board sit in the boardroom, and then they come and present their plans.

“It can be a Zoom call or it can be on friendly chat. And then we ask questions, they give an opening talk about what they see as a vision for the club and immediate concerns that need to address and then they go into longer term.

“I remember that talked specifically, where everybody else was talking more generally. And for where we were in the league, that really resonated with us. He would use players names that we have, not just say ‘a centre back’ – he would use the specific name and was so well rehearsed. He came with such level of knowledge and was so prepared, so we all immediately felt very comfortable with him.

“He’s been a tremendous hire. He’s just a great person and a great coach. I’m happy we made that decision.

“We make the decision as a board and we discuss it openly. We have only ever had unanimous board decisions passed. So clearly, we’re like minded as a board – from the Chairman, to me, to Amanda and Mehrdad, so I think we definitely are like-minded as a board. We all thought he interviewed fantastically well and was the right man for the job. We’re happy we got him.”

3 thoughts on “Jamie Reuben reveals what Eddie Howe said to wow board in Newcastle United interview

  1. You omit to mention that Emery verbally accepted the Newcastle offer of the job but then changed his mind over night. Serendipity, it has worked out very well for Newcastle and Emery at Villa. Wishing both teams all the best in Europe next season.

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  2. Forgot to mention Emery turned Newcastle down and Howe was second choice fact. Both proven well respected coaches both doing great jobs for there respected clubs. Good luck to both.

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  3. 2 mackem b’sers. Produce evidence before you speak. Emerey was never EVER interviewed or offered so stfu !

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