Eddie’s exceeded all expectations, but he still looks like a dead man walking at Newcastle

NEIL

ACL issue is a crippling blow. There have been few better than the Dutchman since his arrival.

Knocks to other crocks have been equally as significant.

Callum Wilson is more often seen on the treatment table than on the St James’ Park pitch. Joe Willock,

Harvey Barnes... the list goes on.

Sandro Tonali’s absence has been keenly felt.

Bruno Guimaraes (above) is now being linked with a move away.

There’s talk of off-loading players to stay within the financial regulations.

It’s not a club without issues. Chances are, they’ll need a new sporting director, too, with Dan Ashworth likely to defect to Old

Trafford.

All of which begs the question where do Newcastle United look for a man to take them to this so-called ‘next level’ – wherever and whatever that is. Jose Mourinho (above)?

Serial winner or yesterday’s man? Unai Emery (below)? Likely to secure Champions League football with Aston Villa.

Diego Simeone

(left)? It would be a push, prising him from

Atletico

Madrid – but money talks.

Of course, Howe could consolidate himself by running for the England job if Gareth Southgate leaves his post this summer, should anything happen. For the time being, he will be hoping that the complex issues currently swirling around the North East prevent any hasty action in the Middle East.

It’s far better to have someone who knows and understands the problems at play, rather than parachute in a successor who will be learning as he goes.

Perhaps that should be the consideration – over and above anything else.

Howe brought them Champions League football.

This season hasn’t been a disaster.

It’s not been a success, either. Things could be worse. But the lessons of football history are standing right at his shoulder – and the Toon chief would be wise not to ignore them.

bet your bottom dollar the managers of Newcastle United and Tottenham will bemoan ‘stretched their end-of-season friendly in Australia at best counter-productive and at worst, pointless.