Two names linked with Newcastle job - Absolute nonsense or ones to watch?

Fresh from our unconvincing FA Cup win over Blackburn last night, we've seen two managers linked with Eddie Howe's job at Newcastle United today.

According to Christian Falk - the head of football at Sport Bild - Newcastle are considering a summer move for former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann.

He reports that the 36-year-old is debating whether to sign a new deal with the German national team or return the club management, also revealing that he is represented by the same agent as Newcastle centre-back Fabian Schar.

Elsewhere, it's believed highly-rated Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim is also 'appreciated' by Toon chiefs. This comes from journalist Fraser Fletcher, who has also previously reported on our alleged interest in Nagelsman.

Just a few days ago, The Telegraph's Luke Edwards reported that Eddie Howe retains the full backing of Newcastle's owners. Since then, we've progressed to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. It was a huge win, but the performance was alarming, leaving fans wary of Saturday's meeting with an in-form Wolves side who went above us in the league last weekend.

Personally, I'd be shocked if Howe wasn't given the remainder of the season. It's vital we get our identity back, improve defensively and qualify for Europe in some capacity, but I can see our owners giving Howe every chance to turn things around given all of the mitigating factors that have negatively impacted our season.

Who knows. These could be lazy links from journalists attempting to capitalise on a tough period for Howe or two names who are genuinely under consideration just in case our form fails to improve over the comings months.