Newcastle United icon Les Ferdinand believes Eddie Howe’s swift growth has become a ‘problem’ for his former club.
When the former Bournemouth manager was chosen as Steve Bruce’s successor in November 2021, the Magpies were in the Premier League relegation zone and without a win. However, Howe led the Magpies to mid-table safety by the conclusion of the season following a major investment during his first transfer window and notable improvements from key players inherited from Bruce.
The enthusiasm carried over into Howe’s first full season at St James Park, with the acquisitions of Nick Pope, Sven Botman, and Alexander Isak helping the Magpies reach their first major cup final since 1999 and secure a place in the Champions League by finishing in the top four.
United, on the other hand, has had a difficult start to the season, winning just one of their first four games, and will aim to end a three-game losing streak against Brentford on Saturday.
“All of a sudden, there’s an expectation that Newcastle should be challenging for first place.” People believe they should be there, but I don’t believe they are.
“However, there is still a lot that needs to be done with the team.” Another top-four finish would be a wonderful season for them, in my opinion. Everyone is panicking because they lost to Liverpool and Manchester City, two big games, but I believe they are doing well.
“Eddie Howe has made a few changes to the team, has spent some money, and it takes time for players to gel.” There’s just an expectation with Newcastle right now that they should keep going.”
Ferdinand, who scored 41 goals in 68 appearances for Newcastle between 1995 and 1997, claimed that there is ‘a lot that needs to be done with the club’ if they are to become consistent rivals at the top end of the Premier League.
“I think no one expected them to finish in those Champions League spaces last season, and they got to the Carabao Cup final,” he told William Hill. That, I believe, is the issue.
“All of a sudden, there’s an expectation that Newcastle should be challenging for first place.” People believe they should be there, but I don’t believe they are.
“However, there is still a lot that needs to be done with the team.” Another top-four finish would be a wonderful season for them, in my opinion. Everyone is panicking because they lost to Liverpool and Manchester City, two big games, but I believe they are doing well.
“Eddie Howe has made a few changes to the team, has spent some money, and it takes time for players to gel.” There’s just an expectation with Newcastle right now that they should keep going.”