Eddie Howe seems to have finally overcome a difficult moment, leaving behind days of criticism and attacks by the press. The response has arrived on the pitch, with two high level team performances against Chelsea and Arsenal, both at St. James’ Park. For those who wanted already Howe’s head, the Newcastle United’s manager proved that his time has not come yet. Actually, the season is just dawning and the squad is becoming more competitive.
Nevertheless, the situation for Magpies was rather precarious before last week, following the recent results in the Premier League. In fact, after the home victory against Wimbledon FC in Carabao Cup, Newcastle’s team suffered a series of negative results. A goalless draw at Goodison Park, followed by losses to Brighton and Chelsea left morale low. Change was needed, and quickly.
As a consequence of this run of poor form, Howe found himself in dire straits. No-one was truly optimistic about a possible revenge against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, this time at St. James’ Park, but the result was astonishing. The Magpies, after ninety minutes of total domination, secured a 2-0 win against the West London side. Maresca’s team was ridiculed and crushed.
Three days later from that impressive victory and riding a wave of success, Newcastle produced a sumptuous performance against Arsenal. The final score was a 1-0, with Eddie Howe’s players having control throughout the game. The result allowed the team to reach 10th position in the Premier League table, only three points away from Champions League places.
Howe was seriously questioned after the defeat against Chelsea and was no longer sure of remaining Newcastle’s manager. But, in just three days he restored his honour, obtaining qualification for the next Carabao Cup round and moving upward in the Premier League’s table. Only time will tell where Eddie's future lies; however, in the meantime, he continues undisturbed to guide Newcastle’s United.
