Eddie Howe makes Nottingham Forest atmosphere claim ahead of Newcastle United visit

Eddie Howe is anticipating a “red hot atmosphere” when Newcastle United face Nottingham Forest on Friday night (kick-off 8pm).

The Magpies travel to the City Ground eyeing back-to-back wins after getting their European challenge back on track via a 2-1 victory over Wolves last Sunday.

Although Forest sit 14th in the Premier League and just two points above the relegation zone, Howe is wary of the hosts’ home record.

As the United head coach pointed out, Steve Cooper’s side are unbeaten in their previous nine league games at the City Ground.

“I think they’re unbeaten there in nine games, and that includes tough games, they drew with Manchester City recently,” said Howe.

“It’s a really tough place to go, the atmosphere will be red hot naturally because it’s a Friday night game.

“We’re looking forward to it but we can’t underestimate the challenge there. It’s going be difficult, we’ll have to be at our best.”

Howe praised Cooper for the job he has carried out at Forest. The club was bottom of the Championship when he took charge in September 2021 but achieved promotion in the same season via the play-offs.

Since ending their 23-year Premier League absence, the Reds have invested heavily - signing a staggering 21 senior players.

“It can’t be underestimated how difficult that is,” Howe insisted. “I know from my experiences to manage a large group of players, especially when you have players who aren’t playing or aren’t involved in the matchday squad, to keep that harmonious and on the same track.

“To keep everyone together is very difficult, so I think he deserves huge credit for the job he’s done, firstly in getting the team promoted from a difficult position and now stabilising the team in the Premier League.

“Their performances throughout the season have got better, so we know it’s going to be a very difficult game for us.”