Eddie Howe Takes Accountability for Newcastle's Struggles After Disappointing Brentford Loss
After a tough 3-2 defeat to Brentford, Eddie Howe didn't hold back in criticizing both himself and his players for Newcastle United's recent poor performances. Despite admitting his own shortcomings, Howe expressed a sense of urgency in demanding higher standards from his team to turn things around.
Eddie Howe ripped into his Newcastle United players following their 3-2 defeat at home to Brentford on Saturday evening, though conceded he himself needs to look in the mirror over the team's poor results and performances. The Magpies are without a win in their last five games in all competitions, losing four of them.Newcastle had the opportunity to move above Brentford into eighth in the Premier League table with a victory. Sven Botman actually gave the hosts the lead in the first half, but a header from Vitaly Janelt and penalty from Igor Thiago saw the Bees go into the half-time break ahead. Bruno Guimaraes levelled with a spot kick of his own in the second half, before Dango Ouattara came up with a late winner for the west Londoners. Home supporters loudly booed their side off at the final whistle.At his post-match press conference, Howe admitted that while he takes 'full responsibility' for this season's slump, he doesn't believe that some players have given their maximum of late.Howe said: "I always feel under pressure. It's irrelevant to me, the type of pressure. When you're in this job, you're always in that moment: whether it's pressure to win, or to turn around results. We're very much in that [second] feeling."I always say the pressure I put on myself could not be more extreme. I demand really high standards from what I am doing and how I work, and what I ask the players to do. I'm obviously not doing my job well enough at the moment. I'm annoyed with myself, angry with myself, blaming myself, taking full accountability on my shoulders. No one else."There's a harsh reality for me. I think I have to think long and hard about - not my effort, because I can't question that - but I have to work better, do more. I have to take responsibility for everything you see on the pitch. I have got to work out solutions."I also of course have to ask the same of the players. I have to ask them to be really honest and look at their best levels, and judge them against that now in this current moment."I don't think there are too many who can say they are playing their best. That then gives us growth to improve."Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Howe was also asked about his team getting booed off, to which he replied: "If we perform, the crowd will back us. They will be with us every step of the way."I have no issue with their reaction today. They are reacting to what we deliver. I don't see that being a problem. Of course we have to turn that around with our performances."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThis loss to Brentford leaves Newcastle 12th in the Premier League table, and they will drop down a further place if Brighton & Hove Albion beat Crystal Palace on Sunday.Howe's side are back in action on Tuesday when they travel to fellow strugglers Tottenham Hotspur, who were beaten 2-0 at Manchester United in Saturday's early kick-off.
Eddie Howe's Post-Match Analysis
Following Newcastle's defeat to Brentford, Eddie Howe faced the media and took full responsibility for the team's current slump. While acknowledging the pressure that comes with his role, Howe emphasized the need for self-improvement and a collective effort to raise performance levels.
Self-Reflection and Accountability
Howe openly admitted his frustrations with his own performance as a manager, stating that he must do better and find solutions to improve the team's results. He highlighted the importance of holding himself accountable and striving for excellence in every aspect of his work.
Player Expectations and Honest Assessment
In challenging his players to reflect on their own performances, Howe urged them to be honest about their current levels and the need for improvement. By emphasizing the importance of self-assessment and growth, Howe aimed to inspire a collective effort to raise the team's standards.
Fan Reaction and Performance Accountability
Addressing the crowd's disappointment and boos at the final whistle, Howe acknowledged that the fans' reactions were a direct result of the team's on-field performance. He stressed the importance of winning back the supporters through improved displays and results in the matches to come.
Looking Ahead
With Newcastle currently sitting 12th in the Premier League table, Howe faces a significant challenge in turning their fortunes around. The upcoming fixture against Tottenham Hotspur presents an opportunity for the team to bounce back and showcase a renewed sense of determination and quality on the pitch.
