Eddie Howe says there is “more” from a rejuvenated Newcastle ahead of their trip to Tottenham tomorrow lunchtime.
The Magpies enjoyed an impressive December as they moved up to fifth in the Premier League after four consecutive wins, including a 2-0 win at Manchester United on Monday night.
They haven’t conceded in the league since a 4-2 upset at Brentford on December 7 and will arrive in North London full of confidence.
Howe is pleased with their progress but believes they can still improve.
He said: “There is always (room for improvement), you have to believe that, I honestly do. There are more to come, we are playing much better, the cohesion in the team was very strong. The players play with confidence and freedom and express themselves in an excellent way.
“But as the challenges mount, we will need to deliver more. These next games we have will challenge us more and we will have to respond in a positive way.
“Our attacking players are in good form. It looks like we had a good feel for the team. Mentally, I think we’re in a good place. So I think we have to go into the game and try to continue our good form.”
For the first time in 2025! 💪 pic.twitter.com/kPA2uI1gHp
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 2, 2025
Howe wary of injured Spurs
As on Monday, he will face a team who are going through a tough time with Tottenham having just one point from their last three games and in the midst of a major injury crisis.
However, Howe dismissed the idea that it was a good time to play Ange Postecoglou’s men.
He added: “I don’t know if it’s going to be a good game for us or not until afterwards.
“I think it will be an exciting game. I think it’s always against Tottenham. We’ve historically had good games against them. Both teams had their moments in these games. One thing is certain, they are not going to change their attacking approach. It was very effective for them in front of goal. Look at their numbers, they’re really good.”
Botman is back
Newcastle will be further boosted by the possible return of Dutch defender Sven Botman to the matchday squad.
Boatman has been out since March after damaging his ACL but will be on the bench tomorrow.
“He’s worked incredibly hard to be in good shape,” Howe said. “He had three games, a lot of indoor training as well. They are definitely in and around my thoughts. I will have to decide who I think is the best fit for this position. Great to have Sven in and around and available again.
“We’ve taken more time than we normally would out of respect for the injury he’s had to try and make sure he has the best chance of staying fit and when he comes back, hitting the ground running, which is absolutely vital.
“I have a decision to make in terms of team selection, but if Sven is in the team, it is because he is fit and available.”
England boss Tuchel will be in attendance
Tomorrow’s game will be Thomas Tuchel’s first as England manager, not that Howe cares.
“I’m sure the players will know that, but I think for me it’s irrelevant,” he said.
“It’s us against Tottenham and we have to make sure we’re in the same place we were against Manchester United, on the front foot and try to put in a good performance.”
