Fabrizio Romano blasts ‘unfair’ Newcastle United reports involving Eddie Howe

Fabrizio Romano has revealed Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has ‘many fans’ at the Football Association - but insisted the Magpies boss is ‘only thinking’ of continuing his impressive work at St James Park.

The former Bournemouth boss has been suggested as a possible successor to England manager Gareth Southgate, who could reportedly leave his role after next summer’s European Championships in Germany.

Southgate has been in charge of the Three Lions since 2016 and led the national side to the semi-final of the World Cup in 2018 and the final of Euro 2020 before a defeat against Italy ended any thoughts of becoming the first men’s senior side since 1966 to land major silverware.

However, Romano hit out at links suggesting Howe could take charge following next summer’s tournament, brandishing them unfair as the Magpies boss aims to continue the momentum he has built during his two-year stay on Tyneside.

Writing on CaughtOffside, the journalist said: “Before the game, there were some reports again of the FA looking at Eddie Howe as a potential replacement in case Gareth Southgate doesn’t stay beyond 2024. Personally, I don’t think it’s fair to see these links coming up in the middle of the season when managers are trying to focus on their jobs, but just how true are these stories?

“Howe has always had many ‘fans’ in the FA, this is true. He’s always been highly rated but there are currently no discussions at all, also because he wants to focus on Newcastle project and he’s only thinking of Newcastle.

“Of course, I think he’d be an excellent candidate for any project, including England but we should respect Newcastle and also Southgate, who continues to do a great job with the national team.”

Newcastle are back in action on Saturday when they host Premier League rivals Crystal Palace.