Howe Looks to Build on Carabao Cup Success with Top-Four Push

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is targeting a memorable finish to the Premier League season after their Carabao Cup triumph.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe addressed the media in his latest press conference, ahead of the Magpies' clash with Brentford on Wednesday. Howe's team is currently sixth in the standings with 47 points, just two points shy of fourth-placed Chelsea, as they continue their pursuit of European football.

Howe began by providing a crucial update on the team's injury situation, specifically regarding defender Sven Botman. “(Sven Botman) is not too bad. He had a very minor operation to clean out a floating bone that was in his knee and was causing him some problem,” Howe revealed, offering a positive outlook on Botman's recovery. He added, “The initial diagnosis was six to eight weeks but he has already got through two or three of those. So he is on the road, he is feeling good and fingers crossed, we will see him in May some time.”

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe reflected on the team's previous encounter with Brentford, which ended in a 4-2 defeat. However, Howe noted that the loss served as a turning point for the team, sparking a positive change in momentum. “It was a very difficult day, that one. It was a catalyst for us in terms of regrouping and changing our season's momentum. We went on a really good winning run after that,” he said.

Howe acknowledged Brentford's strengths, highlighting their set-piece prowess and impressive away form. He also praised Brentford manager Thomas Frank, saying, “Thomas (Frank) has done a really good job there. They are strong in set-pieces. Their away form is really strong now and they are a free-scoring side. So it will be very tough.” Newcastle United will need to be well-prepared to face the challenges posed by Brentford.

Howe provided an update on winger Anthony Gordon's injury status, revealing that he is recovering from a hip injury. “He has a really nasty bruise in his thigh. But he is up and running. He hasn't trained with the group yet and we anticipate to do that in the next few days,” Howe said, indicating that Gordon is nearing a return to training.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe discussed the team's targets for the season following their Carabao Cup triumph and the subsequent parade, which brought the city together in celebration. “It has been a case of resetting and looking at our goals again in a different way. We need to put what happened against Liverpool to the back of our minds and now really focus on the future,” Howe said, emphasizing the importance of shifting their attention to the remaining matches.

Howe reflected on the team's experience after winning the Carabao Cup, acknowledging that they had time to absorb the emotions of the game. “We have enjoyed the break. We went to the Carabao Cup final knowing we had time to absorb what happened in that game. Thankfully, it was positive,” he said, expressing gratitude for the positive outcome.

With the celebrations now behind them, Howe emphasized the team's readiness to return to action. “But now we are ready to play again. That's what we do. We are still in the middle of the season. It's been a long break, but we have tried to navigate that as well as we can with all the emotion around the game we had. But we are focussed on the next match,” he said, highlighting the team's focus on the upcoming fixture against Brentford.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe emphasized the importance of the remaining 10 Premier League games, viewing them as opportunities to make the season a memorable one. He drew parallels with the team's cup final appearance, suggesting that a strong finish to the league campaign could have a similar impact. “We have 10 games and 10 great opportunities to try and turn our Premier League season into a memorable one like the cup final. We are looking forward to it and I am hopeful the lads are boosted and have renewed confidence,” Howe said, expressing his optimism about the team's prospects.

Howe also addressed the contract situation of defender Fabian Schar, revealing that a new deal has been agreed upon. “To my knowledge, He will be signing his new contract imminently, if he has not already,” Howe said, indicating that the formalities of the contract signing are nearing completion. This update provides clarity on Schar's future with the club, ensuring that he will remain a key part of Newcastle United's squad.