‘Slightly disappointed’: Eddie Howe delivers Newcastle verdict ahead of Champions League fixtures

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United have had a tough start to the season, and with Champions League fixtures set to begin soon, there could be further difficulties ahead.

The Magpies got off to the best possible start after thrashing Aston Villa 5-1 on the opening day, but have fallen to three consecutive defeats against Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton since then.

Whilst all three are tough sides to face for anyone, questions have been raised about Newcastle and Eddie Howe this season, and after being handed a tough Champions League group, there could be more difficulty ahead.

Speaking to journalist Daniel Wales ahead of the Great North Run, Howe claimed that whilst the start to the season has been disappointing, the upcoming Champions League fixtures may prove to be a useful experience.

“Yeah, that’s gonna be a great moment for us (returning to the Champions League),” he stated.

“I think we knew the fixture lists were going to be difficult for us. We’ve been slightly disappointed with certain aspects of the first four games, but I think we have to look at it as a challenge and an opportunity for us to grow.

“The Champions League is on the horizon, but first we have a very important Premier League game against Brentford.”

Newcastle’s tough run

Newcastle are returning to the Champions League for the first time in over 20 years, and have been drawn to face AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund in an incredibly challenging group.

In addition to this, the Magpies need to get back on track in the Premier League, but games against Brentford and Burnley will still prove to be tough challenges.

Having to face Man City again, with Howe’s side drawn against the treble-winners in the Carabao Cup, is far from ideal in the midst of these tough games, and with Newcastle out of form, these next few weeks have the potential to define the season.

If Howe’s side can start picking up results, then Newcastle could gain a massive boost in all competitions as they aim for a top-four finish and good results in Europe. If the team continues to falter, then a difficult season could lie ahead.