Howe now glad to be getting on with season

NEWCASTLE United boss Eddie Howe admits he was glad to see the back of the January transfer window after talk of star players leaving disrupted the early part of 2024.

Howe had to contend with two cash bids for Kieran Trippier from Bayern Munich, while there was also interest in Miguel Almiron, Callum Wilson and Jamaal Lascelles. But Howe was delighted once the window closed last week with the majority of his squad still at St James’ Park.

Howe has spoken about being a tracksuit manager above anything else before, and when asked if he was pleased the January trading period had come to an end, he said:

“My preference is always to concentrate on the football and coaching, and working with the players, so any distraction to that isn’t welcome. The transfer window is gone and now we look forward to just focusing on the football.”

Newcastle’s first game back in action since the window shut was Saturday’s 4-4 draw with Luton Town at St James’ Park. In a week in which United had already beaten Aston Villa away and won at Fulham in the FA Cup, hopes were high for a much-needed home victory. Howe’s team couldn’t get it, but he was delighted with the approach and attitude of his players, he said: “I think the attitude was there all game, along with the determination to do well. Maybe it was the thought and the strategic play that was just a little bit off. Hence why Luton found a way back into the game. But I can’t fault the attacking spirit of the group. “We were always looking to attack the game and stamp our authority on the opposition, but Luton were trying to do the same to us, and that’s what made it such an open game. Both teams were trying to grab the initiative. “United head to the City Ground on Saturday night hoping to secure another away win after the win at Villa Park recently. The Magpies won the corresponding fixture 2-1 at Forest last term when Alexander Isak scored twice to take the points.