Eddie Howe has been speaking to the press from St James’ Park in the last few moments, discussing tomorrow night’s clash with Barcelona in his pre-match press conference.
The boss has revealed our excitement and focus ahead of a “historic” game on Tyneside, believing the fixture has a “magical feel to it” and promises to create another huge atmosphere at St James’ Park.
Howe has hailed Barca’s technical ability and pace in wide areas, challenging the team to keep up our strong start to the season from a defensive point of view.
The manager gave little away on Nick Woltemade’s ability to start again as we prepare for Barca tomorrow and Bournemouth on Sunday, but insisted he will prioritise the next game while trying to get the balance right heading into a busy schedule.
Anthony Gordon is looking good and “in my thoughts”, said Howe, who admits it’s a big season for the England winger, while also confirming that Yoane Wissa is due back, as things stand, after the next international break for our trip to Brighton on 18th October.
See some of the best bits from Howe’s press conference, including his thoughts on why the new league phase format and Lamine Yamal missing out:
Howe on Wissa injury – “Yoane will, we hope, be back after the next international break. That’s the plan, so Brighton, the first game back (after the break). It’s always flexible. It can always change, but that’s what I’ve been told.”
Howe on Woltemade’s fitness in busy schedule – “We are taking everything into consideration to make sure we have balance (for the games ahead), but the priority is to win next game. We are looking at who we have available. Team selections aren’t straightforward, a lot goes into it.”
Howe on Barcelona draw – “This is a historic game. We knew when the draw was made it had a magical feel to it. I think it’ll be an amazing match to experience. We’ve been focused on tactical prep and making sure we perform well. I am really excited for the atmosphere again — it’ll be unbelievable once again.”
Howe on Barcelona test – “Firstly they’re a very good technical team. In possession they’re very comfortable on the ball. They have a lot of pace in wide areas and a lot of goals. You saw in their last game they’re free scoring and have started the season really well. All of those things lead to us having to defend very well so our off the ball game plan has to be very strong. We’ve started the season well defensively so a continuation of that is going to be important.
“Whoever plays us knows they are in for a very competitive game. We play with a lot of heart and spirit. I back the quality that we have.”
Howe on Gordon – “Anthony (Gordon) is good. He’s in my thoughts and is an outstanding player. We’ll look to utilise him, whether that’s from the start or not. He brings a pace and directness you always need. It’s an important season for him and we look forward to help him reach his highest levels.”
Howe on the new format – “I like the format. I think more games is good for us, as we are learning as a team. So the more we play, the more comfortable we’ll become in this environment. But there are benefits across the board; financial (from more games) and showing the squad we are good enough.
Howe on Yamal being out – “It’s a shame that Lamine Yamal is not playing. I feel disappointed because we won’t get the chance to see him at his best in the match.”
