EDDIE: WE'RE GOING FOUR IT

Magpies boss targets Champions League spot... but no 'blockbuster' signing

- SIMON BIRD

NEWCASTLE boss Eddie Howe has fronted up on the pressure he faces in his third season at Toon by admitting their target is Champions League qualification.

The Geordies took part in a light training session in Japan, with Howe conceding the travelling, heat and humidity had taken a toll on his squad.

The head coach will test his players in two games this week against Urawa Reds and Yokohama to boost the Far East fan base and club income.

Howe has set a bold target of repeating their top-four finish of May last year, and competing with Europe's elite again.

But he also warned Newcastle do not have the finances for a "blockbuster" signing.