Newcastle United did not have much to celebrate against Tottenham Hotspur, but Eddie Howe believes the club at least have two things to be positive about.
The Magpies have now suffered back-to-back defeats, following up their 3-0 humiliation against Everton with another heavy loss.
This time it was 4-1 to Tottenham Hotspur, with Ange Postecoglou’s side battering a Newcastle team that were once again visibly shattered.
It should not be used as an excuse, but tiredness is certainly a contributing factor amid the club’s ongoing injury crisis.
However, it did show signs of easing up on Sunday, with Sean Longstaff and Callum Wilson returning to the squad. They appeared off the bench during the defeat to Spurs, and Eddie Howe has now spoke about their respective comebacks.
Eddie Howe pleased to have two Newcastle players back from injury
Following the defeat to Spurs, Howe spoke to NUFC TV about Newcastle’s injury issues, and expressed his delight at being able to select Longstaff and Wilson once again.
“Hopefully they can see that the players are giving everything that they have physically,” he said.
“There is some tired bodies there. There are players playing with injuries. But we really are grateful for their reaction and their understanding of the situation we are in.
“The positive today is that we got Sean and Callum back, two massive players that we have really missed so that is what we have to cling to today.”
Newcastle receive a big boost ahead of AC Milan tie
Their returns come at the perfect time, with Newcastle now preparing for their biggest game of the season. The Magpies take on AC Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday night, needing a win to have any chance of advancing to the next round.
Longstaff’s return is particularly vital, as you have to imagine he will start at St James’ Park. While Lewis Miley has played brilliantly, we could really benefit from Longstaff’s energy and experience.
As for Wilson, he will provide cover for Alexander Isak, who looked off the pace during the defeat to Tottenham.
There weren’t many positives from Sunday, but getting a couple of players back from injury was certainly something to celebrate. It meant Howe was actually able to make some positive substitutions, which have been non-existent for weeks now.
With AC Milan looming, Howe needs all the options he can get. It is an absolutely massive game on Wednesday night, and one that Newcastle’s tired squad can be a bit more confident about now that the cavalry has arrived.
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