Howe issues brilliant message ahead of huge January for Newcastle United

Eddie Howe has issued a message of defiance after a brutal run of results of December, believing "January is the month for us to fight back!"

After six defeats in our last seven, the boss admits it's been a hugely difficult time, but has called on his players to start afresh in the New Year and "attack" the tough set of fixtures coming our way.

He feels now is the time to be "strong, stand up and be counted and respond", feeling the upcoming run is a chance for us to respond to recent setbacks and "show our quality."

The boss also discusses his ongoing communication with the owners, believing we are a real "team" from top to bottom and determined to improve after a pivotal December went against us in the league, cup and in Europe.

Here's his message, followed by his comments on the Forest defeat, a big month ahead and Monday's trip to Anfield:

https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1740675090331681139

Howe on the 3-1 defeat to Forest:

"There was some really good bits, especially in the first half where we could have put the game to bed at times. Some frustrating moments as well, highlighted by the goals which were uncharacteristic for us. That's disappointing as I thought the game was there for us to win but we have to learn from those moments and come back stronger."

Howe on a big month ahead:

"We have tough games coming up but they're games we relish. We're not daunted by it, we will attack it and give it our best shot. Recent results have been a challenge for us and the last couple of performances haven't been as good as they can be so we're determined to get back and produce our best football."

Howe on our trip to Liverpool:

"We've had a couple of painful games against Liverpool but the positives from both of those games is that we've performed really well and we were competitive. We need to be near perfect in this game. The challenge for us is to find our best form and mentally be very strong."