Opinion

I rate Eddie Howe.

I believe him to be smart, honest, and an incredibly hard worker.

I believe him to be an excellent student of the game that has evolved to be an excellent teacher of the game.

I admire what he has accomplished since the Newcastle United takeover – especially in light of Board and Senior Management shortcomings that have left his options and cupboard bare.

However, I believe his lack of flexibility and the stubbornness of overreliance on the same players in the same 4-3-3 system has negatively impacted the Newcastle United team and the results.

I’d prefer Eddie Howe change his ways, become more flexible in the planning for a run of matches and more dynamic in match day decisions that can positively impact the game. But, if we do not see this after four years…it’s not likely to occur now. I’d accept assistants that could improve set pieces and help to guide Eddie to navigate his blind spots. Maybe that will happen but I am convinced that Eddies track record is one of stubbornness.

Eddie Howe stood on the touchline at St James’ Park on March 22, 2026, as Sunderland’s Brian...