It’s only been a short while since Gareth Southgate resigned from the England job, but that hasn’t stopped the speculation that Newcastle United manager, Eddie Howe, would be the perfect replacement.
That conveniently sidesteps the fact that the Football Association must first go through a due diligence procedure and that the Magpies board would very likely deny any FA request to speak with Howe.
Newcastle hold clear-the-air talks with Eddie Howe
It should come as no surprise that the FA would want to at least test the waters and see where the land sits, given how well Howe’s sides play football and his tactical mastery of the game.
The Newcastle manager’s recent remarks appear to have forced the club’s board to have open discussions with Howe, according to The Telegraph (subscription needed).
Eddie Howe has been heavily linked with the England job.
For those discussions to have begun, there must be some concern. In fact, the publication reports that Newcastle’s CEO, Darren Eales, called Howe “phenomenal,” demonstrating the high regard the St. James’ Park hierarchy has for the 46-year-old.
The Newcastle board appears to have been taken by surprise by Howe’s remarks to the media about being content as long as he has assistance to carry out his duties, as he has up until now.
Even while the manager hasn’t stated outright that he would accept the England position, there was enough in his remarks to suggest that it may be possible if Newcastle’s new direction reduced Howe’s authority.
Paul Mitchell took over as sporting director from Dan Ashworth, which should be an easy transition. But, if Mitchell wants more control over transfers, which would undermine Howe’s authority, it is just one point of dispute that might lead to Howe’s eventual resignation.
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