The rollercoaster of emotions continues for Newcastle United as their manager, Eddie Howe, grapples with the team's unpredictable performances. It's a sentiment many fans can relate to: the frustration of not knowing which version of your team will show up on matchday. Howe himself admits to a 'horrible feeling' when he can't predict his team's performance.
After a promising win against Manchester City in November and a subsequent four-game unbeaten streak, Newcastle suffered a jolting 1-0 defeat against rivals Sunderland. This loss highlighted the team's inconsistency, especially given their lackluster display at the Stadium of Light, where Howe had instructed them to play defensively rather than aggressively.
This defeat has left Newcastle languishing in 12th place in the Premier League. Adding to the concern is their poor away form, with only one league win on the road since mid-April. Howe's frustration is palpable as he reflects on his team's fluctuating form.
Howe emphasizes the importance of players giving their all, stating that he expects them to give "absolutely everything they have within their soul and their body." He believes in their abilities once they step onto the pitch with the right mindset. However, he admits that this hasn't always been the case, citing a lack of mental fortitude and a disconnect from the responsibility of representing themselves and their families.
But here's where it gets controversial... This season has seen a pattern of Newcastle responding to defeats, as they have done after losses against Brentford, West Ham, and Marseille. Howe acknowledges that this isn't the ideal way to operate.
Newcastle now face a quick turnaround, with a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Fulham at St James' Park on Wednesday. Captain Bruno Guimaraes acknowledged the need to "set things right," recognizing that true redemption will have to wait until the next Tyne-Wear derby in March, labeling the weekend's performance a "mess." Howe, while acknowledging the importance of off-field discussions, stresses that "it pales in significance against your will to prepare."
Howe also addressed Guimaraes' comments, clarifying that while the sentiment was largely accurate, he didn't believe the team was a complete "mess," but rather, they simply didn't perform to their potential. He highlights Guimaraes' emotional nature as a key factor in his success and leadership. The focus now is on moving forward and improving, as Howe states, "We can't affect the past – we can only affect the future. We need to do that today."
And this is the part most people miss... Newcastle will have to navigate this period without influential defender Dan Burn, who is sidelined for four to six weeks due to a rib fracture and a punctured lung sustained in the derby.
What do you think about Newcastle's inconsistency? Do you agree with Howe's assessment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
