Michael Owen defends Eddie Howe ahead of FA Cup clash
Michael Owen believes Newcastle United would be wrong to sack Eddie Howe as the 48-year-old prepares for tonight’s FA Cup showdown with Aston Villa, reports BritPanorama.
Howe has faced increasing scrutiny in recent weeks due to Newcastle’s struggles, having failed to win any of their last five matches across all competitions before the recent 2-1 Premier League victory against Tottenham.
The manager remains resolute about his position, expressing confidence that he is the right man for the job, despite tentative links to clubs such as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
Owen, a former Newcastle striker and current ambassador for Casino.org, warned against dismissing Howe, stating, “If he got sacked, he would walk into the next managerial job that comes up.” He highlighted Howe’s caliber, noting the interest from other top clubs should he become available.
Owen further underscored the potential ramifications of letting Howe go, asserting, “He is the most sought after manager around,” and reiterated the progress the team has made under his guidance, including achievements such as participating in the Champions League and winning the League Cup. He emphasized the limited resources and challenges Howe has faced during this season.
Newcastle’s summer signings, including Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga, and Yoanne Wissa, have drawn criticism for their failure to meet expectations, contributing to the team’s current form. Nevertheless, Owen defended Woltemade’s contributions and expressed understanding of how Financial Fair Play rules restrict Newcastle’s market activities.
Mentioning the broader implications of these regulations, Owen said, “The [financial] rules are killing them at the moment.” He noted the need for the club to balance its books, with key players like Elliot Anderson being moved as a result.
As speculation mounts regarding potential transfers, including links to Arsenal and Manchester United for standout player Sandro Tonali, Owen reflects on the precarious position Newcastle finds itself in. He remarked on the evolving nature of player power within the sport, emphasizing that if the right offer comes in for Tonali, he might depart.
The ongoing challenges for Newcastle underline the complexities of modern football, where managerial security and player retention are increasingly interlinked. As the team navigates this turbulent season, the decisions made could have long-lasting implications for their ambitions on both domestic and European fronts.
