Demba Ba believes that both Newcastle United and Eddie Howe have some “growing to do”, but feels the Magpies are a “good fit” for the former Bournemouth boss.
Howe took his first training session as the new Toon boss yesterday, as he got to work on dragging the club up the table and out of the relegation zone.
Following the Unai Emery U-turn, the Saudi-led consortium came to a quick resolution and appointed the 43-year-old ahead of his first game in charge after the international break, which comes against Brentford at St James’ Park.
With over a year out of the game following his departure from the Cherries, Howe is back in the top-flight and ready to guide Newcastle into a new prosperous era.
Former Toon striker Ba gave his opinion on the club’s appointment, labelling Howe a “good fit”.
Speaking to Sky Sports at the Newcastle United Foundation awards dinner, Ba said: “Where Newcastle stands today, I think it has some growing to do. The coach himself, don’t get me wrong, he’s a very good coach.
“He’s still young, he did some great things for Bournemouth. At the same time, he also has some growing to do. It’s a really good fit.
“Because where he is in his career, and where Newcastle are now – it is a good match. I believe they can grow at the same pace, and help each other.”
Two of Howe’s first three matches in charge come against Brentford and Norwich City, two of the Premier League’s newly-promoted sides.
And after Steve Bruce only managed to get a point away to Watford, these games really are early six-pointers for Howe.
Then things get really tough. Newcastle’s fixture list from mid December to New Year’s Day reads Leicester, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Everton.
Following PIFs appointment of Howe, it feels like the embarking of a new era can finally click into gear.
- NEW! Download the TalkingPoints App, create your own newsfeed and join the conversation
- Ewen Jaouen reveals immediate thoughts on Newcastle United’s training ground after signing
- Kieran Maguire’s verdict on PIF selling Newcastle United after LIV Golf U-turn
- Fabrizio Romano confirms Ewen Jaouen transfer fee as Newcastle United close in
- Progress at last as Newcastle United completely revamp their transfer stance
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
