Howe also discussed the battle for European football, saying: "There's a host of teams that will be frustrated because we've all been inconsistent. We're all searching for a formula and momentum lift into the last few games. We have tough games to play but we're looking forward to the last five."
Team news
Tino Livramento is due to train on Friday and could be fit enough to feature, Callum Wilson is back in contention after his cameo at Palace, but the game comes too soon for Kieran Trippier, Joelinton, Nick Pope and Miguel Almiron once again.
Matt Targett is the latest Mag who's been ruled out for our remaining five games, joining Joe Willock, Lewis Miley, Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles on the sidelines.
For Sheffield United, striker Oli McBurnie has been ruled out, Man City loanee James McAtee is a doubt and Jayden Bogle is facing a fitness test after he was forced off during Wednesday's 4-2 defeat at Man Utd.
Predicted XI
(4-3-3): Dubravka - Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall - Longstaff, Bruno, Anderson - Gordon, Isak, Barnes.
This is dependant on Livramento being fit, but the fact he had Wednesday off and is back in training gives me hope he'll be able to play this one. If not, I'd fully expect Krafth at right-back and Hall down our left to bring some balance back to our defence.
The midfield three picks itself with Joelinton, Miley, Willock and Tonali all missing, while the front three feels like our best trio on paper. I wouldn't rule out a start for Wilson, but this one probably comes too soon for our No 9.
Prediction: Newcastle 3-0 Sheffield United
The Blades are shipping goals for fun and will be officially relegated if they lose here. Mix that with our need for three points, our appetite to bounce back from Wednesday and much improved home form and I can only see a convincing win for.
HOWAY THE LADS!
