Eddie Howe's Insights: Revealing Newcastle Boss's Take on Champions League Draw, Transfer Window, Anthony Gordon, and Beyond

Eddie Howe reclines in his seat, a smile forming on his face. "I certainly won't be using those words," he remarks.

Howe is reacting to Newcastle CEO Darren Eales' assessment of this season's Champions League draw. Eales believes that Newcastle, having been placed in a group alongside French champions Paris Saint-Germain, seven-time victors AC Milan, and 1997 champions Borussia Dortmund, are part of a formidable "super group".

However, Howe disagrees. "I don't subscribe to the group of death concept," he asserts with a wide smile during an exclusive interview with We.

"It presents a genuine challenge for us, undoubtedly. We are competing against elite teams, yet being in the Champions League means encountering top-level opponents on a regular basis."

Newcastle is making their first appearance in the Champions League group stage since the 2002/03 season. They will be playing against teams that have all previously reached the final within the past 16 years. In addition to the memorable European nights at St James' Park, the team's head coach, Howe, is eagerly anticipating three thrilling trips abroad for his managerial debut in the competition.

"I can say with certainty that we are determined to approach this challenge aggressively and display our utmost abilities. I am greatly excited about it," expressed the head coach of Newcastle.

I believe it is a wonderful opportunity for our fans as the European trips we have planned are not extensive in distance. This aspect is particularly important for them, and we hope to ensure the safe travel of our club.

All individuals will relish these remarkable experiences. We will have the pleasure of visiting exceptional locations, stunning stadiums, and competing against highly skilled teams. Our mindset is entirely positive, and the forthcoming challenge is undeniably exhilarating.

Brighton and Hove Albion

Newcastle United

Saturday 2nd September 5:00pm

Kick off 5:30pm

Newcastle have made a significant investment of £130m in new players during the summer transfer window, with the aim of constructing a squad that can effectively compete in various competitions.

Among the arrivals is midfielder Sandro Tonali, whose transfer fee of £55m broke Newcastle's previous record. The 23-year-old joined the club from AC Milan in July. Additionally, winger Harvey Barnes joined for £39m from Leicester, right-back Tino Livramento joined from Southampton for £36m, and left-back Lewis Hall was acquired on a season-long loan from Chelsea.

"It has been a successful transfer window," asserts Howe. "I am satisfied with the acquisitions and content with the squad. In terms of numbers, we have significantly bolstered our team compared to last year, which is the primary purpose of the squad.

"We have introduced exceptional players to our ranks who possess exemplary attitudes and mindset."

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'It's been a positive window - the squad is stronger'

Newcastle's 2023/24 campaign has been challenging despite the arrival of new players. After a 1-0 loss to Manchester City and a 2-1 defeat against Liverpool last Sunday, there are suggestions that Howe's team could benefit from the presence of a sharp striker. While they did secure a 5-1 victory over Aston Villa on the opening weekend, a clinical forward could further strengthen their ranks.

Despite leading 1-0 and having a numerical advantage for most of the game against Liverpool, Newcastle suffered a defeat as Darwin Nunez's two late goals completely changed the outcome. Manager Eddie Howe described the defeat as a challenging one to accept.

During the match, Newcastle managed to accumulate 23 shots compared to Liverpool's nine. Additionally, their expected goals (xG) stood at 1.99, while Liverpool only had 0.88. These statistics prompted pundit Gary Neville to imply that Howe lacks a "quality" attacker who can effectively close out a game. However, Howe remains confident in the abilities of his current strikers.

"Reflecting on missed opportunities as a team and acknowledging defeat is necessary. Identifying areas for improvement becomes crucial. I have utmost confidence in our players," states Howe.

"Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak, along with our other attackers, are exceptional talents, and I have no concerns regarding the quality and strength of our squad. However, it is important to remember that having a talented squad does not guarantee success."

"We had to handle the crucial moments during the game, but regrettably, we missed out on a few chances. Gary was correct in expressing that sentiment, and it caused frustration among us.

"This week was particularly challenging, but we will recover and prepare ourselves for the upcoming game."

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'Neville comments fair but I'm happy with strikers'

The upcoming match will take place on Saturday as Newcastle travels to the south coast to take on Brighton. Despite their recent loss to West Ham, Brighton, under the guidance of head coach Roberto De Zerbi, has continued to impress. Entering Gameweek Four, they currently lead the Premier League table in terms of goals scored, with a total of nine.

"Roberto has performed exceptionally well," Howe expresses prior to the upcoming live contest on We.

"I've had the privilege of meeting him on a few occasions. We visited the same region during the summer, faced them in pre-season matches, and competed against them last year. Hence, we are well aware of their impressive skills."

Howe: 'Incredible' De Zerbi has improved Premier League

With Newcastle aiming to steer clear of a third consecutive Premier League loss, the expertise of their incredible coach and the collective achievements of the team have been commendable. This talented coach has significantly contributed to the Premier League, enhancing it with a distinct style of football. Hence, full acknowledgment goes to both him and his players for enriching the league's quality.

Moreover, as Newcastle seeks to bounce back, it is imperative that winger Anthony Gordon maintains his impressive early-season performance, upon which Howe will rely heavily.

After winning the European U21 Championship and being named player of the tournament, Gordon's success has extended to his performances at the club level. In the past, he had only scored one goal in 16 league appearances after transferring to Newcastle for £45m in January. However, this season, the former Everton star has already achieved one goal and one assist in three Premier League games. According to Howe, Gordon has been exceptional. Despite the challenges of transitioning to a new team mid-season, last year proved crucial for him as he had sufficient time to familiarize himself with both the on and off-field aspects of Newcastle. This advantage provided him with a head start in the pre-season, ensuring he came into the current season fully prepared and aware of what to expect.

Anthony has been performing exceptionally well recently, and we firmly believe that he possesses all the necessary qualities to thrive. Furthermore, he is being spurred on by the presence of talented teammates who surround him. In terms of our squad, we are significantly bolstered in this aspect. I am genuinely delighted with Anthony's progress.

Howe: Gordon has everything to excel

Newcastle's ascent has been meteoric under Howe. In November 2021, when he assumed the helm, they languished in 19th place in the Premier League, winless. Remarkably, the former Bournemouth manager not only safeguarded the Magpies' position in the top flight but also propelled them back into the elite realms of European football within a span of 18 months.

Such noteworthy achievements, amplified by the backing of a Saudi Arabian-funded consortium, have heightened expectations for the current season. Nevertheless, Howe remains steadfast in his approach, abstaining from setting specific objectives.

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Eddie Howe, as manager of Newcastle during the Premier League era, has a win percentage second only to Kevin Keegan. "As human beings, we are always tempted to strive for more and push ourselves further, and that is definitely our goal," he expresses.

However, as a manager, I have always been hesitant to set specific goals and provide exact figures for our objectives. This is due to the fact that each season brings its own unique challenges and circumstances.

Undeniably, this year will be a remarkable campaign for us, given the extensive number of matches we are scheduled to play and the various competitions we will be participating in.

"We're going to be tested and stretched, but I really believe in the group I have. I believe in our method of work and I'm looking forward to the challenges that await us."

Brighton and Hove Albion

Newcastle United

Saturday 2nd September 5:00pm

Kick off 5:30pm

Will Newcastle finally secure a victory after their opening weekend win? Don't miss the live broadcast of the highly anticipated match between Brighton and Newcastle on We Main Event and We Premier League. Tune in at 5pm on Saturday Night Football, with the game kicking off at 5.30pm.

Howe on targets: Newcastle want to push on

Join us on We for live coverage of the match at the Amex Stadium on September 2 at 5.30pm. Stay updated with our live blog, which includes exciting in-game clips and free match highlights after the final whistle.

September 17: Brentford (H) - kick-off 4.30pm, live on We

September 24: Sheffield United (A) - kick-off 4.30pm, live on We

September 30: Burnley (H) - kick-off 3pm

October 8: West Ham (A) - kick-off 2pm

October 21: Crystal Palace (H) - kick-off 3pm

Sky VIP and Newcastle are offering one Sky customer and three guests the chance to enjoy a matchday experience at St James' Park.

In addition to enjoying hospitality at the new Rooftop Lounge, the winners will receive pitch-side access to witness the pre-match warm-up, have the opportunity to meet a club legend, and take home a signed shirt. Travel and accommodation expenses are also covered.

To participate, simply visit the My Sky app. Entrants must be Sky VIP customers who are 18 years old or above. The complete terms and conditions can be found on the My Sky app. The competition concludes on September 16. Best of luck!