Eddie Howe Unveils What He Refuses to Do Before Sunderland Clash

Newcastle United coach Eddie Howe remains focused on the upcoming Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen. He has made it clear that thoughts of the Sunderland derby will not influence player selection or strategies for this match.

Eddie Howe’s Commitment to the Match Against Bayer Leverkusen

Howe stated he refuses to rest key players ahead of the game, emphasizing that maintaining player fitness is best achieved through regular play. He believes that participating in the Champions League will help keep his squad sharp and ready for future challenges.

Comparison to Past Experiences

Howe addressed comparisons to the 2013 Europa League campaign, which saw Newcastle struggle and nearly face relegation. He urged critics to “draw a line” through past mistakes and emphasized the need to move forward.

Remarks on Squad Depth and Fitness

Despite concerns about team depth, Howe remains optimistic. He commented on the importance of keeping players involved in the game, even if that means giving them shorter playing time to maintain rhythm and fitness.

• Lewis Hall is the only player who faced rest due to illness.
• Injuries to key players like Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Sven Botman, and Nick Pope have affected the squad.
• Howe acknowledged limited depth but remains confident in the talents available.

Tactical Focus Ahead of the Match

Howe plans to choose a robust lineup for the game while keeping in mind future fixtures, including the derby against Sunderland. He confirmed, “We will pick a team that will be strong tomorrow and strong for Sunday.”

Newcastle’s coach also noted the training limitations that have challenged player integration but expressed his confidence in the capabilities of players like Yoane Wissa, who is set to gain more minutes in the match.

Future Aspirations in the Champions League

Looking ahead, Howe is eager for his team to secure a spot in the knockout phase of the Champions League. He highlighted the necessity of winning against formidable opponents like Bayer Leverkusen, who present a significant challenge.

In conclusion, Howe’s strategy aligns with ensuring optimal performance in the Champions League, disregarding distractions related to the impending Sunderland match. His focus remains steadfast on achieving favorable outcomes in both competitions.