Howe Downplays Newcastle’s Recent Edge Ahead of Boxing Day Trip to Old Trafford
Eddie Howe has cautioned his Newcastle United side that their recent superiority over Manchester United will offer no advantage when the two meet at Old Trafford on Boxing Day.
Newcastle arrive in Manchester having won five of their last six meetings with United in all competitions, including four of the last five Premier League clashes, but Howe has stressed that past results carry little weight in a fixture of this scale.
Despite that strong record, the Newcastle manager dismissed the idea that the 2023 Carabao Cup final defeat to United represented a turning point for his team, insisting his approach remains unchanged regardless of the opponent.
The context underlines the challenge facing Newcastle. They finished last season 10 places and 24 points ahead of Manchester United, yet head into Friday’s contest three points behind the hosts after surrendering a two-goal lead in a 2-2 home draw with Chelsea at the weekend.
That match still offered positives, most notably the performance of record signing Nick Woltemade. The forward scored twice in the first half, delivering his most complete display in a Newcastle shirt and drawing praise for both his finishing and overall contribution.
St. James’ Park provided the backdrop for a lively encounter, with Newcastle starting sharply and controlling large spells of the opening half. Woltemade was central to their attacking rhythm, dropping deeper to link play before pushing forward to threaten inside the penalty area.
The key moments came early. Newcastle’s buildup play consistently pulled Chelsea out of shape, creating space between the lines and allowing quick progress through midfield. Woltemade’s movement caused constant problems, while the home crowd responded to his energy and confidence.
Both goals reflected that momentum. The opener showcased his sharp connection in front of goal, while the second was a technically outstanding finish that highlighted his composure under pressure. He could have completed a first-half hat trick just before the break, missing a simpler chance that briefly took the shine off an otherwise dominant display.
After halftime, the game shifted. Chelsea increased their intensity, Newcastle lost some control in midfield, and the visitors clawed their way back into the contest. Missed chances and defensive lapses began to creep in, ultimately allowing Chelsea to rescue a point.
The late stages were tense, with Newcastle defending deeper than intended and struggling to regain their earlier fluency. The dropped points left a sense of frustration, even as individual performances offered encouragement.
Attention now turns to Old Trafford, where Howe expects a different test altogether. Manchester United’s recent performances, even in matches they have not won, have shown signs of improvement and resilience.
For Newcastle, the result will shape their momentum heading into the festive period. For Howe and his players, the message is clear. Previous wins mean nothing, and another demanding chapter awaits in a rivalry that continues to evolve.