‘He’s done’ - Newcastle United owners told whether to sack Eddie Howe before transfer window

Former Everton and Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness has urged Newcastle United to stick with Eddie Howe this summer.

A topsy-turvy campaign has resulted in the Magpies crashing out of the Champions League before sliding down the Premier League table. Just a month ago, a 3-2 defeat to Chelsea left Newcastle 10th.

Mitigating factors include an unprecedented injury crisis Sandro Tonali’s 10-month suspension and FFP/PSR restrictions, which stopped Toon chiefs from bolstering the first team in January. A poor run of form until recently had led to faint calls questioning Howe’s future.

Three wins and a draw have silenced the doubters, with Newcastle now in pole position for a Europa League finish. NewcastleWorld understands club officials maintained their faith in Howe throughout the rocky patch.

The 46-year-old will lead a summer rebuild at St James' Park as the Magpies aim to launch another Champions League bid next season. UEFA prize money as well as Sela and Adidas commercial deals are set to kick in - giving Howe further tools to improve the squad.

Speaking to Football Insider, ex-Villa supremo Wyness slammed calls for Howe’s head. He said: “He absolutely needs more time. It’s ridiculous to be calling for his head, he’s done a superb job. (In) the game against Spurs, Newcastle were superb.

“They have been hit by injury after injury this season but they’ve still managed to get some superb results. Anyone calling for his head at this stage has a very short memory. They were a club in turmoil only recently.”