Eddie Howe given 'vote of confidence' by ex-Premier League midfielder outlining Newcastle United aim

Robbie Savage has backed Eddie Howe to turn the tide at Newcastle United and attack another cup run.

Six defeats in seven games across all competitions have resulted in the Magpies exiting two cup competitions while slipping to ninth in the Premier League. Reports have already circulated regarding Howe’s position despite him leading Newcastle to a Champions League finish this season.

Supporters remain positive towards the Toon boss but he must navigate a tough January to stop the rot setting in further. Newcastle face Sunderland this weekend - the first Tyne-Wear derby in eight years - before taking on high-fliers Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Howe is desperately needing a result to reignite the Magpies’ campaign and former Premier League midfielder Savage backed him to come good. Speaking to Football365, the 49-year-old also urged Newcastle to “concentrate” on ending the 69-year domestic trophy drought.

“Newcastle United are now one of the richest clubs in the world and they will want success,” Savage said. “They got to a final last season and qualified for the Champions League. They were unfortunate to go out of Europe - let’s not forget that decision against PSG away from home.

“That was vital. It was such a difficult group and they nearly got out of it. Such fine margins. Eddie Howe overachieved massively last season. Newcastle had no right to qualify for the Champions League, so he did an unbelievable job.

“This year, the amount of injuries they’ve had has been quite unbelievable. Howe needs more time. I like the way he speaks, he never gets too high or too low. He’s always level-headed with his reactions, he never moans about injuries. They’re going through a difficult spell at the minute but they can concentrate now on trying to pick up a trophy for those amazing Newcastle fans.”