Eddie Howe Calls for Strong Reaction from Newcastle United Following Fulham Defeat and ‘Candid Discussions’

Newcastle, currently in sixth place, may have to face City without striker Alexander Isak due to a broken toe. Their first defeat of the season at Craven Cottage prompted manager Howe to take a closer look at their weaknesses.

Newcastle’s midweek League Cup fixture at Wimbledon was rescheduled due to flooding at Wimbledon’s home ground and the postponement gave them some valuable extra time to train.

“We’ve had two really good days where we’ve gone to work with the team to try and solve some of the issues from the Fulham game,” Howe said on Sept 27.

“We reviewed and we didn’t like ourselves. Some honest conversations this week and hopefully, a response... that internal reflection can be really healthy.”

Howe wants his side to show courage on the ball when going forward.

“We have to carry a threat. We have to be an attacking force, brave with the ball as well,” he said.

The manager said it was possible for Isak, who suffered a broken toe earlier this in September, to play with the injury, but the Sweden international was a doubt for City.

“It’s one that can be managed and played with (provided) he can tolerate the pain levels, and that will have no long-term risks... let’s see how he is today,” he added.

Aside from Isak, the Magpies are also missing defenders Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, midfielder Lewis Miley and forward Callum Wilson through injury. Fullback Matt Targett is a doubt.

Howe said that Newcastle, who have 10 points, three behind leaders City, from five matches, will do their best to make things difficult for the champions.

“Everyone will be highly motivated for the match, the crowd will be really there for us if we can inspire them,” he added. 

The game will be City’s first league game since midfielder Rodri suffered ankle ligament damage during the 2-2 draw with Arsenal last weekend.

The Spaniard has become indispensable to Pep Guardiola’s team and is widely considered the best player in his position in the world.

The 28-year-old, one of the leading contenders to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, is expected to be sidelined for several months in a major blow to City’s hopes of winning the Premier League title for a fifth successive season.

City have not lost any of the last 48 league games in which Rodri has featured, with their three top-flight defeats last term all coming in his absence.