Eddie Howe says there is “more to come” from reawakened Newcastle ahead of their trip to Tottenham tomorrow lunchtime.
The Magpies have enjoyed an impressive December, climbing to fifth in the Premier League thanks to four straight wins, including a 2-0 win at Manchester United on Monday night.
They haven’t conceded a goal in the league since a 4-2 reverse at Brentford on December 7 and will arrive in North London full of confidence.
Howe is delighted with their progress, but believes they can still improve.
He said: “There is always [room to improve]you have to believe it, I honestly believe it. There is more, we are playing much better, the cohesion in the team is really strong. The players play with confidence and freedom and express themselves in a great way.
“But as the challenges grow, we will have to provide more. The following matches will be a bigger challenge for us and we will have to respond in a positive way.
“Our attacking players are in good shape. We seem to have a good impression of the team. Mentally, I think we are in a good place. So I think we have to get into the game and try to continue our good form.”
First time in 2025! 💪 pic.twitter.com/kPA2uI1gHp
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 2, 2025
Howe cautious with wounded Spurs
As it was on Monday, they will face a side going through a difficult spell with Tottenham having taken just one point from their last three games and in the midst of a major injury crisis.
Howe, however, dismissed the idea that it was a good time to play Ange Postecoglou’s men.
He added: “I don’t know if it will be a good game for us or not until later.
“I think it will be an exciting game. I think they are always against Tottenham. Historically we have had good games against them. Both teams had their moments in those games. One thing is certain, he will not change his attacking approach. They were very effective in front of the goal. Look at their numbers, they are very good.”
Botman is back
Newcastle will be further bolstered by the likely return of Dutch defender Sven Botman to the matchday squad.
Botman has been out since March after damaging his ACL but should be on the bench tomorrow.
“He’s worked incredibly hard to get himself in good shape,” Howe said. “He had three games, a lot of internal training as well. He is certainly in my thoughts and around them. I will have to decide who I think is the best fit for the position. It’s great to have Sven around and available again.
“It’s taken us longer than we normally would with the injury he’s had to work hard and make sure he has the best chance to stay fit and when he comes back to hit the ground running, which is absolutely vital.
“I have to make a decision regarding the selection of the team, but if Sven is in the team, it is because he is fit and available.”
England coach Tuchel should be present
Tomorrow’s game should be Thomas Tuchel’s first as England coach, not that Howe was interested.
“I’m sure the players will be aware of that, but I think it’s irrelevant to me,” he said.
“We are against Tottenham and we have to make sure we show up in the same place we were against Manchester United, in the first line-up and try to play well.”
