Newcastle United have released footage of Eddie Howe’s press conference on Friday morning, where the Toon boss spoke brilliantly ahead of tomorrow’s final home game of the 2023/24 season.
The boss issued a positive update on the injury front, responded to Alexander Isak’s two Premier League nominations, Anthony Gordon’s snub, the challenge of facing Brighton, our push for Europe and strong form at St James’ Park.
He also hailed Dan Burn, Lewis Hall’s ‘exciting’ development, our desire to keep our star players and took questions on our search for a new sporting director, with Dougie Freedman reportedly leading the way. Watch it in full below, followed by some of the key quotes from his chat with local journalists:
Eddie Howe on Brighton – “A very good team. Roberto has done a great job, along with Graeme before him. Their style is difficult to control. They stick to their method and have become very strong at it.
“If you don’t get the tactical framework right, you’re in for a very tough afternoon. We were off it tactically in the game at Brighton. We know we are going to need to perform well. They are a very strong team.”
Eddie Howe on the race for Europe – “We are competing for something; we are in the mix. We have three games in a massive week for us, it will go down to the wire. We back ourselves, we are in a good place.”
Eddie Howe on our home form this season – “We have loved playing at home this season. I have been really pleased with how we have performed at home.
“We have a good feel, good energy and been very aggressive in our play. We are thankful for the support we have received from the fans. The crowd have embraced our style. It’s been a good partnership between the crowd and the players.”
Eddie Howe on Alexander Isak’s Premier League nominations – “Alex has scored some great goals for us, especially in the second half of the season, he is fully deserving of that recognition. I have seen him flourish this season; he has enjoyed the environment he has played in. I want to push Alex to great things.”
Eddie Howe on Anthony Gordon missing out on a nomination – “I don’t pay too much attention to these things. I haven’t spoken to Anthony but he just needs to focus on performing well. He’s been outstanding this season and If he’s not in the mix for awards I’d be very surprised.”
Eddie Howe on Kieran Trippier –“Kieran is getting closer. He has trained this week. It was the first time with the group. He trained well, it has been a good week for him. I will make a decision today whether he will be involved tomorrow.”
Eddie Howe on Joelinton and Miguel Almiron – “They have trained well; we have been able to get some good work into their bodies. They are still building their robustness if you like, you need the load behind you to stay fit. They are doing well.”
Eddie Howe on Fabian Schar – “I don’t think he’ll figure tomorrow. Let’s wait and see about next week. He’s certainly improving and feeling good.”
Eddie Howe on Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka – “I think if both keepers were 100% fit that is a very difficult call. Nick is still building his robustness. Last week was very clear. Martin deserved to play and Nick is still finding his rhythm. Nick is in a good place and building his strength back up.”
