‘Watch this space’ - Eddie Howe backed for shock Newcastle United exit with next job lined up

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City striker Garth Crooks believes Eddie Howe will replace Gareth Southgate should England fail to win Euro 2024.

The Three Lions are among the favourites to clinch glory in Germany this summer and end their 58-year wait without silverware. Southgate has an abundance of attacking talent at his disposal, although question marks over the defence remain.

Many expect the England boss, who has been in the hot seat for eight years, will step down regardless of how his team performs. There were suggestions Southgate - out of contract after the tournament - would leave following last season’s World Cup campaign.

Howe is the front-runner with many bookmakers for his recent success at Newcastle United. The 46-year-old has transformed the Magpies from relegation fodder to a European outfit despite much of the squad being on Tyneside before the Saudi-backed takeover.

Speaking in 2022, Howe distanced himself from the running short-term but also refused to rule out the England job further down the line. BBC pundit Crooks urged fans to “watch this space” should the Three Lions fail in Germany.

“Had the Blades taken their chances at St James’ Park they might still have a chance to stay in the division,” he wrote. “However, they lost their nerve as opportunities went begging and with it their faith in their ability to win this match. 

“Once Newcastle took the lead, the game was over. Next season will be a pivotal moment for Eddie Howe and the Magpies. Newcastle will not be in the Champions League but they have proved themselves worthy of playing against the very best.

“However, should England not win the Euros with one of the best squads in recent years, then Howe must be one of the very few English managers who could take over from Gareth Southgate. Watch this space.”