10 games left to save Newcastle’s season; Shearer reacts after Howe question

Newcastle United can now focus solely on the Premier League and potential European qualification.
Only ten games remain. Newcastle United has about 900 minutes of football remaining to salvage what has been a frustrating, and ultimately disappointing, season for Eddie Howe’s team.

So far, three outside opportunities for cup silverware have eluded the Magpies, with each run concluding in similarly disheartening fashion. Saturday’s defeat against Manchester City was expected, but the manner of the 2-0 loss will leave some Newcastle fans unhappy after missed chances in front of goal.

Many impassioned responses surfaced in the hours following the setback, with chants of ‘the season is over’ resounding throughout social media. When confronted with that stance minutes after watching his team exit the FA Cup, Howe’s standard answer was “nonsense”.

“There is a huge amount to play for; people say our season is over, which is complete nonsense,” Newcastle United manager told reporters. “We are pushing forward to regain our best form and win as many games as possible. We hope to conclude the season on a positive note.”

With 10 Premier League games remaining, attention shifts to the top flight between now and mid-May. Newcastle (10th) still has to face Tottenham (5th), Manchester United (6th), West Ham United (7th), and Brighton (8th).

Aside from that, Newcastle’s games are only against clubs in the bottom half of the standings. Thankfully, there will be no more travels to the Etihad Stadium or clashes with top-four clubs.

With England poised to get an extra Champions League spot for next season, there is a good probability that finishing eighth will guarantee clubs a spot in the Europa Conference League. Sixth or seventh place might potentially bring Europa League qualification.

Reaching either tournament would be a great boost at the conclusion of a challenging season, providing renewed excitement for what comes ahead. It would also ensure Howe’s extended stay in the dugout.

Much has been said about the head coach’s future on Tyneside, including whether he will be permitted to continue if the season concludes without a top-eight finish. Alan Shearer, a club great, was probed on the subject this weekend and accurately summarized the issue with Howe’s hard-earned bank credit.

“I think there have been mitigating circumstances,” he remarked live on BBC. “When it comes to injuries, particularly Pope and Joelinton, those two guys have been really missed since they contribute so much to the club.

But I know he has enough in the bank. He will be Newcastle’s manager next season, regardless of whether they finish in the middle of the table or qualify for Europe. He’s got plenty in the bank from what he did last season; they believe in him, and they should.