Eddie Howe has ‘no regrets’ over rejecting Celtic as he provide Ange Postecoglou assessment

Eddie Howe has no regrets over rejecting the Celtic job as he heaped praise on Ange Postecoglou for carrying out an “incredible job”.

Postecoglou, in his first season in charge, took a giant step towards lifting the Scottish Premiership title on Sunday after beating Old Firm rivals Rangers 2-1 at Ibrox.

Howe turned down the chance to manage the Hoops in June last year after he was unable to bring his backroom team with him for “a host of different reasons”.

At Newcastle however, that was no such problem with the 44-year-old appointed as the club’s head coach in November - the first under the new Saudi Arabian-backed ownership.

“I think he’s done an incredible job,” Howe said, when asked about Postecoglou’s achievements so far.

“I did actually watch the Old Firm game on Sunday. It was a very interesting game, the atmosphere is always electric and are very interesting games to watch from a coach’s point of view.

“Full credit to him, his staff and players for what he’s done this season because it was a team in slight transition and I think he’s been excellent in recruitment.”

With Celtic on the cusp of their 52nd Scottish Premiership title, does Howe have any regrets?

The former Bournemouth boss insisted: “From my perspective, no. I’m focused on the future for me and very much embracing everything Newcastle.”

During his five months in charge on Tyneside, Howe has led Newcastle out of the Premier League relegation zone, with safety now within touching distance.

The Magpies entertain Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James’ Park on Friday night and know a victory will see them take another big step towards confirming survival.