Sky Sports pundits Gary Neville and Paul Merson have voiced their support for Eddie Howe, despite Newcastle's recent poor run of results that has seen the team fall from European contention to the lower half of the Premier League table. Following a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, Newcastle's fourth consecutive loss in the league, Howe faces immense pressure as head coach, with the team now 14th in the table, just six points above the relegation zone. However, both pundits believe Howe should retain his position, with Merson suggesting that Chelsea would be eager to appoint him as their next permanent manager. Merson stated, 'I'm a big fan of Eddie Howe, and if he leaves, there will be a queue of teams waiting to hire him.
Chelsea would take him without hesitation.' Neville hopes that Newcastle and Howe are already planning for next season, and he believes the English manager can lead the team back into the Champions League. Neville said, 'It's been a disappointing season, but I think Newcastle should have full faith in Eddie Howe. They have a really good manager, and losing him would be a significant blow.' Newcastle player Bruno Guimaraes gave a candid assessment of the team's season, acknowledging that despite showing 'passion' in the defeat to Arsenal, their overall performance has not been good enough.
Guimaraes expressed his hope that the club would bring in new players to improve the team's chances in the future.