Eddie Howe: I'm the right person to take Newcastle United forward
The Magpies' Head Coach was defiant about his role ahead of Newcastle United's significant encounter with Bournemouth.
Eddie Howe has said that he is the right man to take Newcastle United forward into the next stage of their Saudi-backed project.
In what was a clear contrast to Howe’s slightly tired demeanour ahead of the Magpies’ clash with Crystal Palace last week, he was focused and bullish, and made abundantly clear that that he will “fight harder than I’ve ever fought before.”
Given Howe’s perceived negative body language last week, he was asked whether he still has the determination within him to lead the club through what will be a transitional summer, and into a new era. His response was clear.
“My fire is burning very, very strongly”, Howe said, leaving no doubt in the room.
He did admit that there was “no guarantee” from his side as to what will happen in the future given how quickly football can change, but doubled down on his initial declaration, stating that “my fire is there, there’s loads of wood stacked up and I’m ready to put it on it.”
It was certainly a statement of both assurance and intent from Howe, but whilst his internal flame may be burning bright, Newcastle United’s season needs reigniting. Heading into the weekend, they sit 14th in the Premier League, with European places slowly slipping from their reach.
To that end, and with the ambition of the club set out by CEO David Hopkinson in mind, should Howe not be able to improve results and secure another continental campaign for the club, he risks tarnishing his stellar reputation on Tyneside.
As the man who brought the first major trophy back to St. James’ Park since 1969, whilst also returning the club to the Champions League twice during his tenure, he will undoubtedly go down as a Newcastle United legend. However, boos have been heard in recent weeks, especially after the home loss against Sunderland. It would be a great shame if the situation was to become toxic.
On that subject Howe made clear that he just wants “to serve the club.”
“I just want to do what’s right for the football club and that’s always been my aim. If that’s me leaving to help the club, then, of course, that’s something I’ll do.”
There have been some online who have called for Howe to do just that because of recent performances and results, but having said that, Howe then echoed his belief that he is still the right man for the job.
Therefore, with his fire raging, Howe must transfer his energy to his players, to make sure that the club at least turns a corner on the pitch, before any thoughts of Europe, the summer transfer window, and next season occur. This, he will hope, starts against Bournemouth.
An upturn in performances and results would change the mood on Tyneside heading into the summer, and may restore the belief of some, and allow them to back Howe and his claims. It all feels very much on a knife edge. Howe believes he is the man, not just for this season, but for the seasons to come, but it remains on him to make sure that fire is not extinguished.