Eddie Howe's brilliant message to players & fans ahead of huge five days for Newcastle United
‘What we’ve tried to do this week, is take any pressure off, and enjoy our football’.
The words of Eddie Howe in his press conference this morning, ahead of the Toon’s clash against Brighton tomorrow nigh t- a game that feels vital in securing our place in the all important Champions League.
Last Saturday saw the lads draw 2-2 against Leeds at Elland Road, in an intense game filled with penalties, red cards and hostility between the two sides. Many fans online have expressed concern that, if results don’t go our way, we could narrowly miss out on our first shot in the most prestigious of European football for almost two decades (I’m not panicking, but many are).
However, someone who doesn’t appear to be stressed - at least as far as the eye can see - is the gaffer.
Speaking to press, Eddie seemed to be full of positivity and maintained a level-head, despite evident nerves throughout the fanbase as the fight for a top four finish draws to a close.
When asked about the mood within the squad ahead of the final three games, Eddie explained that he’s keeping things ‘simple and clear', backing his level-headed squad to cope with the pressure:
'One of the things I've always used in pressured situations for the players is to keep things very simple, clear and to not overcomplicate things.
'I think that's really important in this moment, that you don't radically try something because I think that can be a big mistake. It's to be very calm and stick to my belief and confidence in the squad.
'We have one objective and that's what we're focused on now. The players have been very calm. I haven't seen anyone overly emotional or overreacting in any situation, so I'm confident we'll handle the occasion mentally.'
The boss also said that he and the lads are ‘looking forward’ to tomorrow’s game, citing it as ‘a really good game between two excellent teams’. Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton will arrive at St James’ Park fresh from a Super Sunday 3-0 win against title-chasing Arsenal, however, that doesn’t particularly concern Eddie:
‘It’s going to be a tough assignment for us but one, at home, we’re not fearful of.
'I know what we’ll get at St James’ tomorrow. We’ll get a United crowd. Under lights it’ll be an incredible atmosphere and an incredible feeling.
'We are in the game to perform and in the game to show everyone how committed we are to bringing success to the club.’
Wor Flags have encouraged fans to bring our scarves and our voices, and to cheer the lads on from the first minute. Whatever happens, we are entering the last phase of an incredible season, that defied many expectations (Newcastle fans included). Perhaps the most important thing to take from the press conference in a nail-biting time, are Eddie’s poignant words:
‘I back the players to do it. They have all season.’
