Eddie Howe responds as Jurgen Klopp pokes fun at Newcastle United after ‘no ceiling’ dig

Eddie Howe has responded to Jurgen Klopp’s Newcastle United jibe following the Premier League rule change that prevents more than one person from standing in front of the technical area.

Magpies head coach Howe and his assistant Jason Tindall have stood side-by-side on the touchline since beginning their coaching careers at AFC Bournemouth. Asked about the rule change last week, Howe admitted it was a blow and even joked Tindall might have to be “chained to the dugout”.

When quizzed about the rule change after Liverpool’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea last Sunday, Klopp couldn’t resist poking fun at Newcastle. The German said: “It’s like that in the Champions League anyway. I think it’s only a problem for one team... Newcastle...”

Following a roar of laughter from the Stamford Bridge press room, Klopp smiled and said “sorry!”

Newcastle fans reacted angrily to Klopp’s comments but Howe agreed that the rule change does impact United “slightly more than other teams”Speaking ahead of this evening’s Premier League clash at Manchester City (kick-off 8pm), Howe said: "I think I heard about them through various sources. I think the rules probably do impact us slightly more than other teams just because of how we’ve worked historically.

“This isn’t a new thing for me and Jason, this has been for how many years I’ve been in management. So it’s not something I’ve just done.

“I didn’t find it too bad last week, I have to say. Pre-game we dovetailed in and out of the area, it worked, we talked. I wouldn’t have noticed a big change, necessarily from previous games.”

It’s not the first time the Liverpool boss has singled out Newcastle. Last season, Klopp made reference to Newcastle’s spending power after sporting director Dan Ashworth said there was “no ceiling” the club’s ambition.

Asked if he felt Newcastle were getting under other clubs’ skin, Howe replied: “I wouldn’t know, we’re just trying to do the best we can for Newcastle in every moment and area.

“The design from us isn’t to annoy people, it’s trying to win games and be successful. If that annoys other clubs, there’s nothing we can do about that.”

The Magpies host Liverpool at St James’ Park next Sunday (kick-off 4:30pm).