Howe says Toon have destiny in their own hands ahead of Milan clash

Eddie Howe says Newcastle will focus on themselves as they prepare for a crucial Champions League clash with AC Milan.

The Magpies must beat the Italian giants when they visit St James' Park on Wednesday — and hope Paris Saint-Germain drop points against Borussia Dortmund — if they are to progress in the competition.

Howe said: "We have worked so hard to be in this position in the first place. Our intention, myself, the players and the coaching staff is to win the match. 

"I think probably to be here with some kind of destiny in our hands, with European football in our hands, we can control what we can control.

"We're going to need every voice, everyone can make a difference for us.

"That's been the fitting for our home form — the fans have driven us on and they've given us the ability to keep going, so we're going to need that tomorrow. 

"Being under the lights here is very special with something to play for and everything to gain. I think we're looking forward to try and prove ourselves in our performances."

The Tynesiders conceded an agonising equaliser at PSG on Matchday 5 and remain without several key players ahead of the final group stage game.

Howe has been unable to rotate several of his stars in the Premier League and they turn their attention to Europe having been comfortably beaten 4-1 by Tottenham last Sunday.

He added: "We're two days after a game, we're obviously trying to manage players and see who is fit for tomorrow.

"Maybe the team and squad hasn't progressed mainly because we haven't seen players [due to injuries].

"We are not moaning about the situation we are in. We're going into the game confident.

"I think it would be an incredible achievement if we could do it. We can't transport ourselves there. We can only look to do it. 

"We have to get our focus right. We can't be distracted by what's done elsewhere."