Eddie Howe admits it is a massive month for Newcastle as the club continue their push for Champions League football.
Newcastle take on top four rivals Manchester United in the Premier League this weekend and can move above the Red Devils with a win at St James’ Park.
Howe’s side are fifth in the table after consecutive wins over Wolves and Nottingham Forest, ahead of what the 45-year-old has called a ‘massive month’ for his side.
Newcastle’s clash with Manchester United kick-starts a busy period of games as the club face six league games before the end of April, including fixtures with European hopefuls Brentford, Aston Villa and Tottenham.
“It’s a massive month. Whenever you have intense period of games, you know those results will define what we do,” Howe told his pre-match press conference.
“The last two results put us in strong position but also lifted confidence levels and morale. There is a big week to come but Manchester United first so we have to focus on that alone.
“We need to learn our lessons from the (Carabao) cup final defeat and analyse that game and try to improve.”
Howe reserved praise for the recent performances of Alexander Isak, who has scored three goals in two games since returning from an injury layoff. The record signing has impressed in the club’s recent wins and Howe believes that Isak’s recent run of goals is ‘just the start’ for the forward.
“He’s got himself into a really good place. He’s getting fitter with every game and certainly confidence wise will be in a really good place. His ability never been in question for us. I’ve said many times he’s got real talent, a brilliant way about him off the pitch.
“He’s electric on the pitch. Really exciting player for us. Players excited to play with him, complements what we have. Excited about the future for him and it’s just the start.”
