Eddie Howe believes Newcastle face one of the biggest tests in their history as they host Barcelona in the Champions League Round of 16.
This is the furthest Newcastle have reached in the competition, and Howe believes this is one of the biggest games in the club’s history.
“I think for me it is, and that is the mentality we need. The underdog role has helped us when the odds are stacked against us, and we need to use every psychological tool.
“We don’t want to waste that opportunity, and this is a moment for us to grab it.”
The Magpies suffered a damning 3-1 defeat in the FA Cup against Manchester City on Saturday evening.
With the club’s current Premier League position, going all the way to the final in Budapest may be Howe’s best chance of Europe next season.
One good piece of news for Newcastle supporters recently was Tino Livramento’s return to the squad following a hamstring injury.
Howe said that ‘The hasn’t done enough to be 100%’ ahead of the clash on Tuesday, but it’s a ‘massive boost’ with him back in the team.
This will be the sixth meeting between the two clubs, with a Marcus Rashford brace in a 2-1 win for Barcelona coming earlier this season.
The most memorable game between the two came in 1997, when Newcastle won 3-2 in their first-ever Champions League game.
Howe is certain that St James’ Park can once again lift the team as it did on that night in the 90s.
“The team gave the crowd what they needed, and that is what we have to give them tomorrow.
“It was incredible in September, and we know the crowd will be there when we need them.”
Barcelona come into the game off the back of a 1-0 win away at Athletic Club, with the only goal coming from Lamine Yamal.
The Spanish winger didn’t play in the game earlier this season as he picked up a groin injury, but he is now set for the clash on Tyneside.
In his six Champions League appearances this season, he has recorded three goals and three assists.
Hansi Flick believes that despite Newcastle’s poor domestic campaign, the European stage is different.
“I think the Champions League is different. Everyone in this stage wants to show their best.
“It won’t be easy, but we have to find solutions. They have very fast and outstanding players.”
Flick will be without Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde and Frenkie De Jong.
Gavi is also set to miss the tie as he is fighting his way back to full fitness after being out since August.
Newcastle will be hoping Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon can feature, after being named on the bench on the weekend but not being brought on due to minor injury concerns.
The game kicks off at 8 pm and will be live on Amazon Prime.
