Howe looks to the present, not the future

EDDIE Howe says it would be “foolish” for him to promise that bottom side Newcastle United will buy their way out of Premier League relegation trouble in the January transfer window.

The Magpies’ new manager celebrated his 44th birthday yesterday by preparing his team for today’s clash with Norwich City, with the club still seeking their first win of the season after 13 matches.

Newcastle, who lost 2-0 at Arsenal on Saturday, are six points adrift of safety at the foot of the table, but they have vital home matches against the Canaries and Burnley – the two clubs directly above them – over the coming week.

Newcastle’s new Saudi Arabiabacked owners have indicated they will invest significantly in the squad but Howe knows he cannot rely on spending power alone to preserve their top-flight status.

Asked if he had been assured of backing in the transfer window, he replied: “I can’t make any promises on that, but I can promise that the people above me, the owners, will support the team and support me in trying to achieve what we need. That’s all I can say at this time.

“It would be foolish of me to make rash promises or statements. My priority at the moment is to get the best out of the players we have.”

Howe has seen signs of improvement in his team in the two games since he replaced Steve Bruce but knows defensive frailties need to be eradicated if they are to drag themselves out of trouble.

“I don’t think there are any limitations on what we can achieve with the group of players we have here,” he said.

“We have to improve performances, improve results and once confidence returns to the team, I think you will see a different team.

“But attacking and defending is always a delicate balance for any team and we just need to get that right.”

Howe, who will be without suspended defenders Jamaal Lascelles, his captain, and Matt Ritchie, will be in the dugout at St James’ Park for the first time after missing the last home game following a positive coronavirus test.

There will be a full midweek match-day from today, with the Magpies starting the proceedings.

Leeds United, who are also battling the drop from a current 17th place on the log, host Crystal Palace today.

The Merseyside derby will take centre stage tomorrow, when Everton host their cross-town rivals Liverpool at Goodison Park.

Other matches on the night include Southampton v Leicester City; Wolverhampton Wanderers v Burnley; Watford v Chelsea; West Ham United v Brighton & Hove Albion; and Aston Villa v Manchester City.

Newly appointed Manchester United coach Ralf Rangnick, meanwhile, could be in the dugout at Old Trafford as soon as Thursday when the Red Devils face Arsenal.

Tottenham Hotspur close out the schedule on that night with an encounter against Brentford. |