Eddie Howe says there is ‘more to come’ from Newcastle’s resurgence ahead of their trip to Tottenham tomorrow lunchtime.
The Magpies have had an impressive December, climbing back to fifth in the Premier League on the back of four straight wins, including a 2-0 win at Manchester United on Monday night.
They have not conceded a league goal since a 4-2 defeat at Brentford on December 7 and will arrive in north London full of confidence.
Howe is pleased with their progress but thinks they can still improve.
He said: “There is always [room to improve]you have to believe it, I sincerely believe it. There is still a lot to do, we are playing much better, the cohesion within the team is really strong. The players play with confidence and freedom and express themselves in a fantastic way.
“But as the challenges increase, we will need to do more. The next matches to come will challenge us even more and we will have to react positively.
“Our offensive players are in good shape. We feel like we have a good impression of the team. Mentally I think we are in a good place. So I think we have to get into the game and try to continue our good form.
For the first time in 2025! 💪 pic.twitter.com/kPA2uI1gHp
– Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 2, 2025
How to watch out for injured Spurs
As was the case on Monday, they will face a team going through a difficult period, with Tottenham having taken just one point from their last three games and in the midst of a major injury crisis.
Howe, however, rejected the idea that it was the right time to take on Ange Postecoglou’s men.
He added: “I don’t know before whether it will be a good match for us or not.
“I think it will be an exciting match. I think they are still against Tottenham. We have historically had good matches against them. Both teams had their moments in these matches. One thing is certain, they will not change their offensive approach. It was very effective for them in front of goal. You look at their numbers, they are very good.
Botman returns
Newcastle will be further strengthened by the likely return of Dutch defender Sven Botman to the matchday squad.
Botman has been out since March after damaging his ACL, but is expected to be on the bench tomorrow.
“He’s worked incredibly hard to get in good shape,” Howe said. “He had three games, a lot of internal training too. He is certainly in and around my thoughts. I will have to decide who I think is the best fit for this position. Great to have Sven in and around and available again.
“We’ve taken longer than maybe we normally would have because of the injury he’s had to try to make sure he has the best chance of staying fit and that when he comes back, he is on the ground, which is absolutely vital.
“I have a decision to make in terms of team selection, but the reason Sven is in the team is because he is fit and available.”
England boss Tuchel expected to attend
Tomorrow’s match is expected to be the first that Thomas Tuchel will attend in his capacity as England manager, which did not interest Howe.
“I’m sure the players will be aware of it, but I think for me it doesn’t matter,” he said.
“It’s us against Tottenham and we need to make sure we’re in the same place as we were against Manchester United, up front and trying to put in a good performance.”
