Eddie Howe is feeling the pressure at Newcastle after a disappointing run of games (Image: Getty)
Newcastle chiefs have reportedly reached a decision on the future of Eddie Howe, who is under pressure to turn things around after a disappointing run of results. Three wins in their last 10 league games has left the Magpies in the bottom half of the table, with a painful derby defeat to Sunderland doing little to lighten the mood. They were also bullied by Barcelona in the Champions League knockout stages, falling to an 8-3 aggregate defeat over two legs.
Their wretched form has led to speculation that Howe could be relieved of his duties between now and the start of next season. The former Bournemouth boss remains contracted until 2027 but is certainly feeling the heat, given that his side face an uphill battle to secure European qualification. However, those in power at St James’ Park aren’t willing to pull the trigger just yet.
According to The Times, club chiefs are prepared to back Howe and he is expected to play a significant role in an upcoming summer rebuild.
Newcastle bosses are said to be convinced that the 48-year-old is part of the solution to their current woes, rather than the problem.
There are internal plans to undertake a ‘comprehensive evaluation’ of the season once it is finished, but Howe is not anticipated to lose his job regardless of what happens between now and then.
He is believed to retain the full support of the club and will reportedly be given time to bring about a period of improved fortunes on the pitch.
The report adds that Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson sent a message to club staff on Monday, in the wake of the defeat to Sunderland, in an attempt to rally them.
In the message, he said that « there is no point in pretending it doesn’t hurt, it does », but that the Magpies are « building something very real here, a club that is consistently competing at the highest levels of sport ».
Howe will reportedly be given sufficient time to turn things around (Image: Getty)
Howe, meanwhile, has expressed relief that he will get the chance to work with his players on the training ground over the next few weeks.
Newcastle have played 23 games in four different competitions since the turn of the year, but a lighter schedule after the international break will give them some much-needed respite.
« It’s a different phase for us now, » said Howe last week. « We’ve been used to playing every two, three, four days relentlessly and the players have handled that well.
« The professionalism has been great, how they’ve looked after their bodies, their minds, everything, it’s been a real test for us and I have to compliment the players on that.
« Now we’re going to a different phase, playing once a week will be slightly strange to train again with big numbers and it will be really enjoyable.
« We’ll look forward to that when we can and we hope that helps our performances back in the Premier League and we can finish the season strongly. »
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