Howe Stresses Need for Perfection from Inconsistent Newcastle to Challenge League Leaders Liverpool

Newcastle United will have to perform almost flawlessly if they hope to halt Liverpool’s relentless pursuit of the Premier League title this Wednesday, insists manager Eddie Howe (45).

Following a thrilling 4-3 win against Nottingham Forest, where they almost squandered a 4-1 lead, Howe’s team now sits in fifth place. However, the manager was far from pleased with the way his side capitulated in the latter stages of the match.

Despite securing victory in eight of their last 11 league fixtures, Newcastle has endured three losses in their past five matches, including significant defeats against Bournemouth at home and Manchester City away.

This inconsistency is a major source of concern for Howe, who understands that his team cannot afford any slip-ups at Anfield.

“We must strive for a near-perfect performance,” Howe remarked during his pre-match press briefing.

“Taking lessons from our recent match against Manchester City would be an excellent starting point, as we failed to implement the aggressive game plan we aimed for effectively.

“We need to carry those lessons with us to Anfield, which is an exceptional venue for football, but it can become quite daunting if we’re not at our best. We must recognise that and ensure we are ready. Psychologically, it’s massive. The atmosphere there is intense, and it’s crucial we get off to a strong start and pose a threat.”

Fans of Newcastle are reveling in what promises to be an unforgettable season, with a League Cup final set against Liverpool next month and the prospect of a deep FA Cup run, all while vying for Champions League qualification.

“There have been moments when we’ve felt frustrated with ourselves. However, when you consider the statistic of 13 wins in 16 matches across all competitions, it shows we’re not an inconsistent team,” Howe stated.

“I would gladly take that sort of performance again over the next 16 matches.”

While Howe acknowledges the difficulty of containing Mohamed Salah at Anfield, Newcastle boast a formidable asset in Alexander Isak, who poses a significant threat to Liverpool manager Arne Slot.

Isak’s double against Nottingham Forest saw him mark 50 Premier League goals in just 76 appearances since his move to the club, a feat achieved by only six players in the league’s history in fewer matches.

“Consider that alongside his arrival at the club – my memory is primarily filled with relegation battles – he didn’t join a squad that was performing at the top level, scoring freely at that time,” Howe commented.

“We had to evolve into that kind of team. But I believe he’s come in with a fantastic attitude towards the club; he’s hungry for success and eager to support the team. He has consistently put the team’s needs before his own, and I’m truly pleased for him.”

Newcastle may see defender Sven Botman return for the trip to Liverpool, as the Dutch player is close to recovering from an injury sustained earlier this month, with forward Joelinton also nearing a comeback.