Eddie Howe makes honest Sheffield Wednesday claim ahead of Newcastle United visit

Eddie Howe has warned Newcastle United not to underestimate Sheffield Wednesday ahead of Saturday evening’s FA Cup third round meeting (kick-off 6pm).

Both clubs head into the cup tie at Hillsborough on a 13-game unbeaten run in their respective leagues. Wednesday are second in League One, while the Magpies sit third in the Premier League table.

Although 42 places separate the two sides in the English pyramid, Howe has told anybody believing that progression into the next round is guaranteed to think again.

Howe is all too aware that a shock is always on the cards after United exited the competition at the hands of third-tier side Cambridge United last season.

“There’s always an analysis of the opponent’s strengths and your strengths, we just have to try and find a way to win,” Howe said.

“The early rounds of the Carabao Cup weren’t easy for us, the Tranmere game was very difficult.

“I can tell everyone connected with the club this is going to be a tough game… the atmosphere, the stadium, their league form. If we underestimate them in any way, I think that’s where the problems arise. Darren (Moore) has done an incredible job.”

Howe continued his praise for Darren Moore. Like Newcastle, the Owls were also one of the country’s in-form teams in 2022.

“They’re having an outstanding season, they play a really nice style of football as well but they’ve got the ability to mix up their game,” Howe said. “They have good footballers, a really good style but they have physical players as well.

“Darren’s done an excellent job, I can’t compliment him enough for the form over 2022, it’s been very strong. For a long period of time now, they’ve won football games and having that momentum, as we know, is a powerful thing.

“Our players will be prepared for everything we’re going to face and our quality needs to show.”