Alex MacQuoid
Howe Expresses Disappointment in Newcastle’s Performance
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe described the uncertainty surrounding his team’s performances as a “horrible feeling” after their recent 1-0 defeat to Sunderland.
Howe believed his side had made progress with a victory over Manchester City in November and a four-game unbeaten streak, but Sunday’s loss to their arch-rivals has raised concerns.
Newcastle’s lackluster display at the Stadium of Light has left Howe frustrated, especially as the team now sits 12th in the Premier League, with just one away league win since mid-April.
“It’s a horrible feeling, because when you enter a game you want your players to go on to the pitch and give absolutely everything they have within their soul and their body to get a positive result,” Howe said on Tuesday.
He emphasized the importance of mentality, stating that players must represent themselves and their families with pride. Howe admitted that the team has lost some of that drive and must find a way to regain their cohesion.
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Recurring Theme of Bouncing Back
Newcastle has faced similar setbacks this season, including losses to Brentford, West Ham, and Marseille. Howe acknowledged that relying on bouncing back from defeats is not sustainable.
The team must quickly regroup as they prepare to face Fulham in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals at St James’ Park on Wednesday.
Guimaraes’ Emotional Response
Captain Bruno Guimaraes labeled the team’s performance against Sunderland a “mess,” though Howe clarified that the team was well-organized but failed to deliver the desired performance.
“Bruno’s comments were 90% right, initially. I don’t think we were a mess. We were very well organised. We just didn’t deliver the performance that we wanted to,” Howe explained.
He praised Guimaraes’ emotional investment, noting it as a key factor in his success as a player and leader.
Injury Concern for Dan Burn
Adding to Newcastle’s challenges, influential defender Dan Burn is expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks after breaking a rib and puncturing a lung during the derby.
Howe stressed the importance of focusing on the future, stating, “We can’t affect the past – we can only affect the future. We need to do that today.”