A SMART SUMMER BODES WELL

EDDIE Howe says Newcastle United must box clever in the summer transfer window with just a month to go before the trading period reopens for business.

Howe and his backroom team must prepare for the next stage of development under Newcastle’s new ownership but the head coach is already looking forward to the next challenge.

Of course, he is eager to get results in the last two Premier League matches but is excited about the window.

Howe said: “If we can be smart with what we do in the summer and keep the spirit we have in the squad, the future is very bright for the club.

“The aim when we came in was to stay in the Premier League at all costs. I don’t think we’re looking at being title contenders at this stage. We’re looking for progression and we’ll have to grow into that.”

With training set to get under way for Monday’s clash with Arsenal, Howe is eager to finish on a high.

Looking back on the defeat to Manchester City, he said: “We made individual mistakes and were punished for them. We have to find a way in these games to be competitive and get results.”