Magpies’ manager praises his team’s resilience but warns Spurs’ attack could be a key challenge.
Eddie Howe, manager of Newcastle United, has expressed pride in his team’s strong defensive performances following an unbeaten run through the festive period, but remains cautious about the threat Tottenham Hotspur’s potent attacking force poses in their upcoming match.
Newcastle’s resurgence has been impressive, securing 12 points from four December matches, all while keeping a clean sheet. This remarkable run has lifted them into fifth place in the Premier League, with 13 goals scored and none conceded, reigniting their aspirations for European football next season. Howe’s success has earned him a nomination for the Premier League Manager of the Month award.
“Our attacking players are in great form, and there is a real sense of cohesion in the squad,” Howe told the press. “Mentally, we’re in a strong position, and we’re determined to carry this momentum into the next match.”
The focus of Newcastle’s recent success has been their defensive strength, which Howe highlighted. “We’ve been solid at the back and managed games well defensively, which has been a key aspect of our performances,” he said.
Nevertheless, Howe acknowledged the challenge that Tottenham will bring. Despite being positioned 11th in the league, Spurs have scored 41 goals this season, only behind Liverpool (45). The history between the two sides has often been marked by high-scoring encounters, with four of the last six meetings featuring at least four goals from the winning side.
“I can’t predict what will happen in the game, but I expect it to be an exciting contest,” Howe said. “Matches against Tottenham are always action-packed, and they have often been a difficult side for us.”
Howe also pointed out that Tottenham’s attacking strategy would remain unchanged, given their impressive goal-scoring form. “Their attacking play has been highly effective, and their goal tally speaks for itself,” he noted.
On the injury front, Howe confirmed that defender Sven Botman is back in training after undergoing surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury. “Sven has put in a lot of work to get back into top shape,” Howe said. “He’s in my thoughts, and I’ll make a decision on his inclusion in the squad based on his fitness and our needs for the game.”
