Paul Mitchell, the recently appointed sporting director of Newcastle United, has addressed speculation surrounding Eddie Howe’s potential appointment as England’s next head coach. Amidst growing rumors that Howe is one of the frontrunners to succeed Gareth Southgate, who stepped down following the conclusion of Euro 2024, Mitchell emphasized that Newcastle are not “scared” by the prospect of their head coach being courted by the Football Association (FA).
With Lee Carsley temporarily in charge of England for their upcoming Nations League games against the Republic of Ireland and Finland. Howe, who has earned praise for his managerial work at Newcastle, remains a strong candidate for the role.
Howe’s Impact at Newcastle
Eddie Howe’s tenure at Newcastle United has been transformative. Since taking over in November 2021, Howe has led the Magpies from relegation battlers to Champions League contenders, playing an attractive style of football and overseeing a significant squad overhaul. Under his guidance, the club secured a top-four finish in the 2023-24 Premier League season, ensuring their return to Europe’s elite competition for the first time in two decades.
Paul Mitchell, who joined Newcastle as sporting director in July 2024, has witnessed Howe’s impact firsthand. Speaking to the media about the England job speculation, Mitchell expressed the club’s desire to keep Howe for as long as possible.
Paul Mitchell: “We’re Not Scared”
Paul Mitchell was quick to downplay any concerns about the potential interest from the FA in Howe’s services. “I’ve never been scared of interest in any of our personnel, especially our head coach, and especially from a level of organization that the FA is,” Mitchell said. “We want Howe as our head coach for as long as we can. But we recognize that we are on a journey, and we acknowledge his quality and his potential as well.”
Mitchell’s confidence reflects the club’s understanding of Howe’s ambitions and the reality of his growing reputation within English football. The sporting director emphasized that Newcastle have always been transparent with Howe about their long-term goals and their desire to build a team that can compete at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe.
Howe’s Links to the England Job
Eddie Howe meticulous approach, focus on player development, and ability to improve teams have caught the eye of the FA. Following Gareth Southgate’s successful tenure, which included a World Cup semi-final in 2018 and a Euro 2020 final, the FA is reportedly seeking a manager with a similar profile—someone who understands the modern game and can continue developing young English talent.
Howe fits this mold perfectly. He has worked wonders with a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters at Newcastle, including developing the likes of Anthony Gordon and Elliot Anderson. Furthermore, his calm demeanor and tactical intelligence make him an ideal candidate to manage the national team.
However, Howe has previously downplayed speculation linking him to the England job, insisting that his focus remains on Newcastle. He has repeatedly expressed his commitment to building something special at the club, and with the team set to compete in the Champions League, Howe may feel there is unfinished business on Tyneside before considering a move to international football.
Newcastle’s Ambitious Project
Under the stewardship of their new owners and the leadership of Eddie Howe, Newcastle have laid the foundation for long-term success.
Paul Mitchell’s arrival as sporting director further signals the club’s intent to build a sustainable and competitive team. The club’s summer transfer dealings, including strengthening key areas of the squad, have shown their commitment to providing Howe with the tools necessary for success.
Mitchell’s comments about Howe’s future underline the club’s determination to retain their head coach. While Newcastle acknowledge that the England job is a prestigious opportunity, they remain confident in their ability to offer Howe a platform to achieve success at club level that could rival international opportunities.
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