Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has emphasized the need to regain the support and trust of the club’s fans as the Premier League season approaches its final stages. Speaking ahead of his team’s match against Crystal Palace, Howe acknowledged the pressure to deliver strong performances after a campaign that has fallen short of earlier expectations.

Newcastle currently sit 12th in the league, a position that would mark the club’s lowest finish in the Premier League since Howe took charge in 2021. The team had briefly been in contention for a top-six spot this season, raising hopes of another successful campaign following last year’s Carabao Cup victory. However, recent results have stalled Newcastle’s momentum, prompting frustration among the fan base.

“We have to try and end the season as strongly as possible and there’s a real responsibility on all of us to deliver that,” Howe said. He stressed that earning back the “trust, respect and love” of supporters is paramount, adding that the players must demonstrate pride and commitment to the club’s values on the pitch.

Newcastle’s upcoming fixture at Selhurst Park comes after a three-week hiatus without competitive matches. The Magpies’ last outing was a defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup, while Palace prepared with a 3-0 win over Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League. Howe downplayed any potential fatigue advantage, noting that both sides have had similar breaks and are managing comparable schedules.

Looking ahead, Howe signaled that he remains committed to Newcastle but acknowledged that ongoing challenges could lead to changes if results do not improve. “What do I need? I just need support, good working relationships with the people around me, a feeling of being able to express myself in the best way possible,” he said. “If that’s not working, for whatever reason, on both sides, then it’s what’s best for the football club.”

Howe reiterated that the club’s interests will always come first in his decision-making. “The most important thing in all of this is Newcastle United. Not me, not anyone else, and I’ll always reflect that in my decision-making. I’ll put the club before anyone.”