How Eddie Howe is staying ‘respectful’ to Aston Villa over Matt Targett’s future at Newcastle United

Eddie Howe is refusing to comment on a potential permanent move for Matt Targett this summer.
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Newcastle United will wait until the end of the season before deciding whether or not to pursue a permanent move for Matt Targett.

The 26-year-old joined on loan from Aston Villa in January and has been ever-present in all the matches he has been eligible for.

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Targett’s arrival forced Jamal Lewis to be left out of the 25-man but the former Southampton youngster has been a better alternative - making 12 appearances to date and keeping four clean sheets.

It remains unclear if Targett will have a chance to build on that tally next season, with United yet to open talks with Villa over a summer move.

What Eddie Howe said about Targett’s future

“No, no discussions with Aston Villa on Matt at the moment,” Howe said. “We’re still in the season and we’re being very respectful to Aston Villa for loaning us Matt.

We’ll make that decision at the end of the season.”

Newcastle fans are certainly keen to see Targett remain at St James’ Park but it could be that Howe also has other targets in mind.

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But to sign top players and ultimately compete for titles, Howe admits “certain aspects of the club need to evolve”.

Howe said: “We need to improve what we deliver for our players.

“Certain aspects of the club need to evolve, and do evolve as we hopefully sign new players and develop the squad as we went to. These things can’t be rushed, and you have to do it properly.

“There will be a process that takes time, how long I don’t know and there will be hurdles, and you can’t just flick a switch. Hopefully we will get there.

“The ambition is there to do it and that is the most important thing.”

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