Eddie Howe has acknowledged boos from Newcastle United fans following a disastrous 2-1 loss to Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear derby. The Magpies are enduring a dismal period, and another second-half slip-up occurred at St James’ Park.
Anthony Gordon gave the hosts the lead in the 10th minute and Howe’s men looked to have bounced back from their 7-2 loss to Barcelona midweek. But a case of deja vu ensued when the players came out for the second 45 minutes.
Sunderland equalised in the 57th minute through Chemsdine Talbi before Brian Brobbey bagged a 90th-minute winner. It was a nightmare for Howe, who is feeling the heat amid a poor season.
Howe on Sunderland Defeat and Boos
Howe was the toast of the town this time last year when he guided the Magpies to the Carabao Cup. But supporters are starting to turn on the English coach and defeats home and away against the Black Cats have cast major doubts over his future.
The gloomy atmosphere at St James’ Park was undeniable and fans’ frustrations showed at full-time. As soon as the whistle went loud boos sounded out around the stadium.
Howe was asked about the reaction from fans during his post-match press conference. He said (via Lee Ryder):
“I understand the reaction at the end of the game. I’m fully committed (to the job). I’m disappointed in myself and my delivery over the last week.”
Howe added:
“My first reaction is to front it up and absorb it… We understand we have not delivered in the two games. We absorb all the criticism.“
Howe has been in charge since November 2021 and has achieved huge success with the club. He became the first Newcastle manager to win a major trophy since 1969.
This season has been one to forget for the Englishman and his team. The defeat to Sunderland leaves them sitting 12th, and they have been leapfrogged by their arch-rivals.
Howe’s Honest Assessment
Alan Shearer called Newcastle’s second-half performance ‘weak’, and Howe wasn’t impressed either. He was pleased with the first half display and thought his side would build on Gordon’s opener.
Howe told Sky Sports:
“Painful, tough afternoon for us. Positive start, I thought when we scored that we’d go on and dominate the game.”
Howe was frustrated with the second half:
“Second half yeah we were, we were second best throughout the second half really. I didn’t like our performance technically, I thought we were poor… I think a defeat is harsh on us but we certainly didn’t play anywhere near good enough.”
Howe made two changes to the starting lineup that played midweek against Barcelona. Sandro Tonali was absent through injury, meaning Nick Woltemade started in midfield.
Some of the Toon Army weren’t happy to see Malick Thiaw dropped after his difficult showing at Camp Nou. Sven Botman started instead of the Italian, but the German came on and had a goal ruled out by VAR.
