Eddie Howe Confirms 'Unwavering Commitment' To Newcastle Amidst England Job Rumours
Eddie Howe has reaffirmed his dedication to Newcastle United despite speculation linking him to the vacant England head coach role. Gareth Southgate resigned on Tuesday after England's Euro 2024 final loss to Spain, sparking rumours about potential successors, including Howe, Graham Potter, Lee Carsley, and even Pep Guardiola.
Newcastle chief executive Darren Eales expressed his desire for Howe to stay at St. James' Park. Howe led the Magpies to Champions League qualification during the 2022-23 Premier League season. "It is an unbelievable football club. I'm very, very proud to be the manager," Howe told BBC Radio Newcastle at the club's pre-season training camp in Germany.
"I love the supporters, I love the players, I love the staff. So really, there has been no thought in my mind on anything else and I have been very committed to the job here," Howe stated. "For me, as long as I am happy and feel supported and feel free to do the work that I love to do at Newcastle, I'll be very happy - and I am very happy."
Howe took over from Steve Bruce in November 2021 and guided Newcastle to an 11th place finish in the league. The team became the first in Premier League history to avoid relegation after failing to win any of their first 14 games. The following season saw Howe lead Newcastle to their first cup final in 23 years and secure Champions League football for the first time since 2002-03.
Howe signed a multi-year contract extension last summer before Newcastle finished seventh in the Premier League. They missed out on European football following Manchester United's FA Cup success. "Of course that is my expectation because I am the manager of Newcastle and I am very proud to be," Howe said when asked if he expects to be in charge against Southampton on the first day of the new season.
"But as I said, it is all about the environment I am working in. As long as that is one where I feel I can give my best, then absolutely, we will crack on and I am looking forward to next season," he added.
England's Next Steps
England are set to face the Republic of Ireland in September for a Nations League match. An interim manager will lead if Southgate's successor hasn't been appointed by then. "I'm absolutely honoured and privileged to be manager of Newcastle United. I hope that is for many, many years," Howe added.
"My commitment is unwavering. I am determined to win a trophy for the football club - that is in my psyche every day. I want to see joy in the supporters. I want to bring that to them, hopefully."
The gaffer.pic.twitter.com/wzsR5nHgw4
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 19, 2024
Newcastle will begin their pre-season preparations with a match against Championship side Hull City next Saturday before hosting newly promoted Southampton at St. James' Park for their opening game of the new season.
Enjoying the evening downtime out in Germany with Newcastle's very own,@sonnysocials!pic.twitter.com/HMDNzFRdpU
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) July 19, 2024
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