(Reuters) – Newcastle United’s Eddie Howe is eagerly anticipating playing on Boxing Day, despite the Christmas-week Premier League fixtures not being popular with some managers. Following a 1-0 loss at 18th-placed Luton Town, Howe is looking forward to the home game against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.
Howe expressed his desire for another fixture quickly to put the loss at Luton Town behind them. The team’s seventh-place position reflects their recent success, having won their last seven league games at home, including victories against defending champions Manchester City, leaders Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea.
Howe, who used to enjoy playing during the festive season as a player, is looking forward to the St James’ Park fixture. He believes that the atmosphere during festive games is always very strong and enjoyable, and hopes that the supporters will contribute to a positive outcome in the upcoming game against Nottingham Forest.
Despite their recent successes, Howe cautioned against underestimating 17th-placed Nottingham Forest under newly-appointed manager Nuno Espirito Santo. He believes that there may be an interesting dynamic due to potential changes tactically following the recent managerial change.
Newcastle’s December performance has been marred by poor results, including exits from the Champions League and League Cup, as well as a growing streak of losing away matches in the league, which now stands at five.
When asked whether he would be able to enjoy Christmas, Howe admitted that he may not be able to enjoy it as much as in previous years, indicating the pressure and challenges currently facing the team.
Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru; editing by Barbara Lewis
