Newcastle United is prepared to resist any attempt by the Football Association to lure Eddie Howe away if he is targeted as Gareth Southgate’s successor. Howe is reportedly on the FA’s shortlist, alongside other managers like Graham Potter, Thomas Tuchel, and Mauricio Pochettino.
While Howe has not commented on the speculation during Newcastle’s pre-season tour in Germany, the club’s CEO Darren Eales has emphasized their commitment to keeping him. Eales stated to The Guardian, “I’m not going to discuss the specifics of Eddie’s contract, but he is under a long-term deal that was extended last year. He is our employee, and we have no intention of letting him go. He is the right coach for Newcastle United at this time, and we see him leading the club for the foreseeable future.”
Eales further expressed, “He is under a long-term contract, he is passionate about club football, and we have an exciting project here with full support from the ownership. We are thrilled about the upcoming season.”
“He understands the club”
Reports suggest that Howe’s contract includes a £5 million release clause. When asked if Howe would still be in charge when the new season begins, Eales confidently replied, “Absolutely yes. Eddie has done an outstanding job for us, transforming the team from 19th to 11th in the Premier League and securing a Champions League spot the following season.”
Eales praised Howe’s man-management skills, his hands-on approach on the field, and his ability to develop players. He emphasized, “He understands the club, the city of Newcastle, and the fans. He is the perfect fit for our project, and we believe he can lead us to great success.”