Boss is delighted at United’s progress
EDDIE Howe is delighted with Newcastle United’s gradual improvement in his first four matches in charge.
The Magpies kept a clean sheet against Burnley for the first time this season in the Premier League and notably skipper Jamaal Lascelles had his best game with 11 defensive clearances.
United’s last two games have seen them yield a point against Norwich with 10 men and then go toe to toe with a physical Burnley side and beat them.
It means confidence is high rolling into the next clash against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium - and Howe is looking forward to the clash.
He said: “The last two games have been very different. Obviously, the 10 men against 11 vs Norwich then Burnley was a really physical contest.
“I think we have taken things from every day we have worked on together. The defensive solidity is improving.”
Howe insists the hard work cannot stop there and admits he will be asking his players for a little bit more at the King Power Stadium.
He added: “We still think we have work in all areas to be the team we want to be.
“I cannot praise the players enough for what they gave to the cause so far.
“Physically and mentally, it is the second game in a week and we largely went for the same players so it was a real big physical effort and I thought the players gave everything again and they will be tired!
“They will be pleased, and there is a real feeling of satisfaction after that Burnley game, now we know we have to back that up and try to repeat that week on week.”
Meanwhile, Leicester returned from Naples in the small hours of this morning before having limited time to work on preparations for Newcastle’s visit.
Their Europa League game would see them either clinch a place in the last 16 if they topped their group or be forced into a play-off scenario.
A defeat could even see them slide into the Europa Conference League due to UEFA’s new tournament format.