Eddie Howe rarely raises his voice publicly, but after Newcastle’s recent Wear-Tyne derby loss, he used the media to send a clear message to his squad.
The manager met with journalists on Tuesday morning for a Carabao Cup quarter-final preview, but the conversation quickly turned to the Premier League setback against Sunderland.
The loss sparked sharp criticism, including from captain Bruno Guimaraes, who had described the team’s performance as a “mess” immediately after the match.
Howe’s response balanced acknowledgment with a reminder of professionalism.
Howe Responds to Bruno Guimaraes’ Critique
Guimaraes had been scathing in his post-match comments.
“I’m very angry, I’m so embarrassed and frustrated,” he said.
“There was no crossing, no passing, no shooting, no nothing.
It was a mess.” Fans echoed his frustration, but Howe wanted to fine-tune the message before it spread further.
“Bruno was 90 per cent right,” Howe said, diplomatically addressing the criticism.
“I don’t think we were a mess, but he was right that we didn’t deliver the performance we wanted.
He’s emotional, that’s part of what makes him such an outstanding leader.”
Howe praised the follow-up statement Guimaraes issued, calling for unity and a focus on the future.
Defining “Mentality” on the Pitch
Howe moved the discussion to the concept of “mentality,” a word frequently thrown around in football.
Newcastle’s recent defensive lapses—including two own goals in the past two matches—illustrated areas where mental application on set-pieces is critical.
“For me, mentality is preparation and taking responsibility for your role,” Howe explained.
“It’s showing up to do the job, knowing what’s expected of you, and delivering consistently.
Talking is important, but it’s nothing compared to putting in the work.”
He added that his players had occasionally fallen short of this standard this season.
“There have been a few games where I’ve left unsure if they gave absolutely everything. That’s mentality, and we need to get it back.”
Away-Day Woes Continue
Sunday’s defeat was Newcastle’s fourth loss in five away matches.
While the team is formidable at St James’ Park, their struggles on the road—currently 15th in away performance—threaten top-five ambitions and potential Champions League qualification.
Howe knows immediate results are needed to maintain their league standing.
Focus Shifts to Fulham and the Carabao Cup
Despite the derby setback, Howe quickly turned attention to upcoming fixtures.
Newcastle host Fulham on Wednesday in the Carabao Cup, and the manager emphasized the need to concentrate on the present.
“I’ve watched the Sunderland game twice forensically, but then I had to move onto Fulham,” he said.
“That’s the beauty of having so many games—you must focus on the next challenge.”
Protecting the Players from Negativity
Howe is acutely aware of the fan frustration, media scrutiny, and negative narratives that can swirl around a team after a loss.
He defended his squad’s character while urging perspective.
“One hundred per cent I have full belief in them,” Howe stated. “My support will never waver.
We have outstanding players, and while there’s negativity, there’s also a lot to be positive about.
We’re still in all competitions and very close to the top of the table.”
Preparing for the March Rematch
Howe also highlighted the long-term implications of derby matches.
While Newcastle may have 25 games before facing Sunderland again, the memory of a loss lingers.
“You never really move on with haste from a defeat by Sunderland,” he said.
“That alone should be motivation when March comes around.
One game may be decisive, but the legacy lasts far longer.”
Looking Ahead with Determination
For now, Howe’s focus is pragmatic: recovering from the defeat, progressing in the Carabao Cup, and regaining consistency in the Premier League.
His message to the players is clear—performances must improve, mental focus must sharpen, and unity is essential.
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