The aftermath of Newcastle United’s defeat at Chelsea was ripped apart on Monday Night Football.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has claimed that his team is not slowing down or thinking about the end of the season.
That was the assessment of Sky Sports commentator Jamie Carragher, who said Newcastle looked “ready” for their summer break following a difficult season. However, Howe warned that there is a big game on Saturday night in the FA Cup quarter-finals against Manchester City, followed by ten critical Premier League games following the international break.
When asked how he sees the rest of the campaign, which could still finish in success or devastating disappointment, Howe claimed his players’ commitment cannot be questioned.
Howe told Chronicle Live: “In the Premier League, we have to keep going, commit to every game, and do our best to win every single match, and that is exactly what we will do.
“Our objective right now is the FA Cup, which is a significant test for us. But we have to forget about the Premier League for the time being and focus on this upcoming game, after which we will have a rest. “When we return from the break, we must give everything.”
After being given the Monday Night Football slot, Sky Sports was bound to dissect Newcastle’s performance against Chelsea. Both Carragher and Arsenal veteran Ian Wright had harsh words for the Magpies.
Wright was even “confused” by Howe’s post-game comments, saying: “I cannot understand why they didn’t play a deep block and frustrate Chelsea even more.” I was perplexed by some of Eddie’s comments [in his post-match interview] because I couldn’t see where they had any sort of control.”