Eddie Howe has opened up on his dream to win something at Newcastle, ahead of the club’s Carabao Cup tie with Crystal Palace.
Newcastle have not won a major trophy since 1955, but optimism has increased in the North East following the club’s takeover last year. The Magpies have began the new season in impressive form and are third in the Premier League table, but attention will turn to cup success as Palace visit St James’ Park on Wednesday.
Ahead of the clash, Howe spoke on his ambition to do well in the tournament and end Newcastle’s long wait for a major honour.
“I have no doubt about the ability of the players ready to come in. We want to do well in the cups,” Howe told his pre-match press conference.
“I said at the very beginning that my dream was to try to win something for Newcastle and that hasn’t changed.
“We have got a lot of players who are eager to play and show their qualities. We have a number of games this week. It’s a very tight turnaround – three games in six days. We will try to make the right call for the team while acknowledging that we are desperate to progress and do well in the competition. I have got to make the right choices and get the balance right.”
Howe also spoke on the international ambitions of his squad, with Gareth Southgate set to name his England squad for the World Cup on Thursday.
Kieran Tripper is expected to be involved in the Three Lions’ campaign, while Callum Wilson, Dan Burn and Nick Pope will also be hoping to be included.
“I want my players to fulfil all their dreams and ambitions. It’s such a delicate thing because you know it is in the hands of the managers of the national teams.
“I know from speaking as a manager that it is very difficult when you have those decisions to make – you are going to disappoint some people. It’s a really strange week, certainly something I have not experienced before, when you have World Cup selection during a busy spell of games.
“I am sure a lot of the players will be looking at what is going to happen. A lot of emotions flying around.”
