‘World class’ manager can expect a call from Newcastle if Eddie Howe actually leaves

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Newcastle United are in an interesting position this summer.

Indeed, there should be hope of a much better season for Eddie Howe and his side this time around.

While Newcastle missing out on European football was obviously disappointing, the reduced schedule should – at least in theory – help Howe manage the squad better after an unrelenting injury crisis last season.

Still, there has been an awful lot of change at St James’ Park. Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi have left the club in news that is thought to have hit Howe hard.

Paul Mitchell has arrived as the new sporting director and this summer’s transfer budget remains uncertain.

That’s all without mentioning Howe’s links with the vacant England job, too.

Though the 46-year-old has stressed he is happy on Tyneside, he did also claim that working conditions under the new structure must be right for him.

With that in mind, potential replacements are being linked.

Mauricio Pochettino – hailed as “world class” by Adam Lallana – has again been touted as a potential Newcastle manager.

Maurico Pochettino to Newcastle United latest news

According to The Daily Mirror, Newcastle will make a move for Pochettino should Howe leave for the Three Lions job.

The Argentine is out of work after leaving Chelsea by mutual consent at the end of last season and has worked with Mitchell at both Southampton and Tottenham.

Decision-makers at Newcastle are thought to want an answer from Howe quickly and are aware they will need to move for Pochettino in a decisive manner given he’s likely to have other offers.

The report suggests that Pochettino could in fact “expect” a call if Howe does leave.

PIF have wanted Mauricio Pochettino for years

Owners PIF do appear to have something of a long-standing interest in Pochettino, albeit he has failed to fully convince at both Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea since.

A year before the takeover eventually went through, the Saudi Arabian owners were said to have considered him their first choice to replace then-manager Steve Bruce.