- Eddie Howe speaks on European aspirations
- Magpies will struggle to reach Champions League spots
- Newcastle United have to make the decision
Newcastle United travelled to Selhurst Park today, looking to keep their European hopes alive. William Osula’s opener gave the Toon Army something to cheer about, but a brace from Jean-Philippe Mateta has knocked the Magpies’ confidence and dreams.
Following the defeat to Crystal Palace, manager Eddie Howe spoke to Sky Sports, where he has put any talk of it out of his mind.
When asked whether Europe is out of the conversation, he said: “I don’t know. That’s the furthest thing from my thoughts at the moment.”
His side find themselves in 14th, with a five-point gap to seventh-place Brentford with six Premier League games remaining.
Eddie Howe must ‘deliver for our supporters’
The Magpies’ results against Manchester United and Chelsea gave them a real chance of getting Europe, but the defeat today and the one in the Tyne-Wear derby have handed them a real blow.
Howe claims that the objective isn’t about getting Europe at this stage, but giving something back to the fans after lacklustre results.
“Delivering for our supporters is definitely number one on our priority list, always. We want to do the travelling supporters justice because they travelled across the country to watch us and support us.”
Newcastle showed a strong display in the first half, until the Eagles took the lead late on through their French forward.
The Magpies boss claims that it was a tough pill to swallow as they came away without any points.
He added: “The defeat is harsh on us because we controlled the majority of the first half and phases of the second. It’s becoming difficult for us.”
They next take on Bournemouth, whose win over Arsenal on Saturday puts them three points ahead of the Tyneside outfit. A win is required if any European dreams are to stay alive.
Newcastle United need to change
A lot of the Toon Army on social media are now in agreement. Howe should announce he is walking away from the managerial position so he can be loved by the supporters.
This would be the second time that they have qualified for the Champions League and then missed out on Europe the following season. Although this season, affairs on and off the pitch at the club have been much worse.
From summer signings sitting on the bench and not being played, to players out of form continuing to start games, Howe has been subject to criticism. Rightly so, as it’s cost them many points.
Howe is loved at St James’ Park for the success he’s delivered, but how much further can he take them? The season shows that perhaps this is as far down the road he can take the club, and if they are to grow into one of Europe’s elite, they need an elite manager, something Howe isn’t.
In other news, What Newcastle United striker did at full-time after Crystal Palace defeat is ‘unforgivable’.
