Howe picks out positives, negatives and hails Toon trio after Newcastle 2-1 Spurs
by Jaspar Shepherdson · 1 September 2024, 21:15
Eddie Howe has been speaking to the press following Newcastle’s 2-1 win at home to Tottenham, in what was a difficult but successful afternoon at St James’ Park.
Goals from Harvey Barnes and Alexander Isak proved pivotal helped the Magpies continue their unbeaten start to the season, but many will feel that Newcastle were fortunate to come away with all three points under immense pressure from the visitors.
Although pleased with all three points, Howe admitted there’s still work to do: “It was a really tough game…second half in the particular. I thought first half was pretty even but we came under pressure. I thought we defended our goal really well.”
“A great response really from the players, from the guys that came on the pitch to find a way to win. It's so difficult to win in this league, especially if you're not at your absolute best and we're finding a way to do it.
“So it's great signs, but we know longer term, we're going to need to improve our performance. Hopefully now all the off-field talk can disappear and we can focus on the pitch and the players that matter.”
It’s been a rather frustrating time on Tyneside as of late, with a poor summer transfer window and Amanda Staveley’s sudden departure still in the minds of many. But Howe has called on the players and fans to keep looking forward as the season progresses.
“Yes it’s been a turbulent time for the club off the pitch throughout this last transfer window. But that’s shut now. Hopefully now all the off-field talk can disappear, and we can focus on the pitch and the players that matter.”
Sunday’s game also marked the long awaited return of Sandro Tonali to St James’ Park, with the fans welcoming back the Italian with open arms.
“The flags display was a surprise when I walked out. Visually incredible. Sandro was moved when he saw it which was brilliant. The relationship between the players and supporters is brilliant.”
Howe also praised Tonali’s second half cameo for reigniting Newcastle after a barrage of pressure from Ange Postecoglou’s side. “Sandro was emotional, and his performance when he came on was outstanding. We were in need of a spark and he was outstanding.”
Both Barnes and Isak opened their goalscoring accounts for the campaign either side of a Dan Burn own goal, with Howe expressing a sense of relief for the pair of attackers.
“The winning goal is a great goal from our perspective…Alex’s finish will do him the world of good. Harvey’s a great player for us…scoring goals is a gift, and that’s something Harvey’s always had in his career, his numbers are incredible for a wide player. There’s real competition for places in the wide areas, which is great to see.”
