When Newcastle lost at the Etihad Stadium last month, Guardiola headed straight to Sandro Tonali at the final whistle, embracing the Magpies midfielder before holding a lengthy conversation as the pair walked together towards the touchline.

Guardiola has done that before with Tonali, and has also held post-match discussions with Anthony Gordon in the wake of Newcastle matches against City.

Both players have been linked with possible moves to Manchester City this summer, but while a personal relationship with Guardiola could influence what happens when the transfer window reopens, Howe insists he is not worried by the City boss’ post-match conduct.

“No, I don’t think it annoys me,” said the Newcastle boss. “It’s something Pep does regularly with lots of players. I don’t think it’s personal to us, I think he’s a football man and he’s got different relationships with different players.

“I really respect Pep and what he does, how he coaches, how he manages. I think his teams have been fantastic for the Premier League and fantastic for football, really.

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