Not only are Newcastle United’s imminent Champions League clashes against Barcelona uncharted territory for the club, they will surely shape the fan feeling on Eddie Howe even further.
Indeed, for Newcastle United this season, it all comes down to this.
If the Magpies lose over two legs to Barcelona in the Champions League round of 16, their season will be over by mid-March.
Convince me otherwise: Eddie Howe gave me my greatest day as a Newcastle fan but he has taken us as far as he can
DISCLAIMER: It's not all his fault, chaos behind the scenes and PSR does not help 😡
That would be hugely disappointing, and while there are mitigating factors at play following such a difficult summer, it is hardly a ringing endorsement of Howe’s coaching work this season.
Newcastle United have never played in the Champions League round of 16 before
Howe is arguably Newcastle’s greatest ever manager but that does not mean he gets a free pass forever.
For the first real time during his tenure, Howe has been questioned by Newcastle United fans.
Those who doubt him are increasingly referred to as the ‘Eddie Howe out brigade’ on social media, while those who continue to support every decision he makes have been labelled ‘happy clappers’.
Now, social media is clearly not the best barometer from which to draw many definitive conclusions, and it should be noted that Howe’s name has consistently been sung inside St James’ Park.
Which player do you regret selling more – Elliot Anderson or Yankuba Minteh?
Thanks, PSR 😡
Howe has taken Newcastle further than they have ever been in the Champions League and deserves to lead them out against European royalty in a fascinating knock-out tie. Of all the brilliant nights under Howe, the two against Barca could be the most iconic yet.
Eddie Howe under pressure ahead of Barcelona clash
If Newcastle continue to perform like they have done, however, they will exit the one competition they are still in and serious questions need to be asked.
For most of the season, it’s been important to reserve judgement. Even after Newcastle’s worst performances, they’ve been cut some slack because of the relentless schedule.
After Newcastle lost to Manchester City in the FA Cup, Howe was quick to point to Tuesday’s home clash against Barca as a reason to cling onto some hope that the season won’t prove pointless.
He said: “We’ve never been in this position in the Champions League before, and it’s the best competition there is.
“So, for obvious reasons, I think it’s a massive game in our history. We need to approach it that way. We need the supporters to think that way.”
Still, the feeble manner in which Newcastle exited both domestic cup competitions at the hands of City cannot fly here.
It might seem unfair to judge Howe on what happens in a knockout tie against Barcelona. Sadly, it’s literally all Newcastle have left this season.
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