'Looked stale' - Newcastle United supporters have their say on Eddie Howe surprise departure
Newcastle United supporters have taken to social media to voice their feelings on the news of Eddie Howe’s departure from the club.
Newcastle United supporters woke up on Thursday morning to the news that Eddie Howe would step down from his role as head coach after almost five years in charge.
It comes after Howe led the club away from relegation danger in his first season before twice qualifying for the Champions League and winning the Carabao Cup, ending a 70-year domestic trophy drought in the process. But after some key player departures and regression on the pitch last season, Howe has decided to call time on his spell on Tyneside.
The 48-year-old was the second-longest-serving manager in the Premier League behind Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.
He will leave Newcastle as the club’s most successful manager in the modern era, with many supporters quick to express their feelings on the matter. We asked readers of The Shields Gazette and NewcastleWorld for their thoughts on Howe’s departure - here’s what they had to say...
Newcastle have reportedly made a move to appoint Al Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle as Howe’s replacement. The 38-year-old has won successive Asian Champions Leagues with the Saudi Pro League club, who, like Newcastle, are also majority owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.
Duncan McWilliams: “Ask all the Eddie out brigade who they want next? Bet you get silence. Howe did a great job but would admit he made some mistakes but then we all do. He has 50,000 better managers every home game to deal with. Wish him and his crew all the best.”
Marc Alexander: “He did so much that other managers couldn't, but the question has to be could he do it again and I'm not sure anymore, all the best in your future endeavours and remember you've left your mark in the Toon’s history books, and for that you'll always be loved.”
Paul Dunning: “Wish Eddie all the best. Not surprised he left. There was some pretty dire treatment from a section of fans. Now let's see who we get. Always said be careful what you wish for.”
‘Gutted’ NUFC supporters
The overall reaction to the news of Howe’s departure was one of gratitude for the job he had done at Newcastle along with a mixture of disappointment or relief depending on who you’re asking.
Andrea Kirkpatrick: “Totally gutted! He’s not had it easy, with all the injuries! But he has got us our first trophy in years! He needs to be involved in transfers and buying of players! Good luck Eddie! You're a hero in my eyes!”
Kenny Blyth: “Gutted, what Newcastle will miss (and what many people forget) is how good a coach Eddie is. The difference he made to some players!! Great memories. All the best Eddie. The League Cup win was great, but being there when we beat PSG 4-1 at home, I will never forget.”
Colin Finn: “Not really surprised, Eddie and his tactics have looked stale for a while. I will wish Eddie all the best in his next venture.”
Some viewed Howe’s exit as a sign of more trouble on the horizon for Newcastle United, particularly regarding Bruno Guimaraes.
James Parker: “Right time, he knows he couldn’t turn it around.”
Stephen Williams: “I take it that means Bruno definitely going.”
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