HOWE AIMS TO REFLECT PROGRESS

Rescheduling gives Newcastle extra time to prepare for City after 'honest review' of defeat

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe said he had some honest conversations with his team after they suffered a 3-1 loss at Fulham and he is looking for a positive response when they host champions Manchester City on Sept 28.

Sixth-placed Newcastle, who could be without striker Alexander Isak due to a broken toe, suffered their first loss of the campaign at Craven Cottage on Sept 21 and Howe said that led to an honest look at their shortcomings.

Newcastle's Sept 24 League Cup fixture at Wimbledon was rescheduled due to flooding at the fourth-tier side's home ground and the postponement gave them some valuable extra time to train.

“We've had two really good days where we've gone to work with the team to try and solve some of the issues from the Fulham game,” Howe said on Sept 27.

“We reviewed and we didn't like ourselves. Some honest conversations this week and hopefully, a response... that internal reflection can be really healthy.”

He wants his side to show courage on the ball when going forward.

“We have to carry a threat. We have to be an attacking force, brave with the ball as well,” he said.