Newcastle ditch crest revamp as injuries bite and scouting steps up
Newcastle draw Barcelona in the Champions League last 16, first leg at St James’ Park. Howe’s side bank on home intensity before the return. Winners face Atletico or Tottenham. First legs 10-11 Mar, seconds 17-18 Mar.
Joelinton scores on return in 3-2 win over Qarabag, saying the goal boosts confidence after injury. He targets Brazil recall as Newcastle reach the Champions League last 16 and push on multiple fronts.
Radical crest overhaul ditched. CEO David Hopkinson to choose between keeping current badge or minor clean-up, with Kenny McIver leading and further fan consultation planned, targeting 2027-28 if changed.
Newcastle send a scout to Genk vs Dinamo Zagreb. With Kos Karetsas out, alternatives linked in recent weeks include Zakaria El Ouahdi, Yaimar Medina, Matte Smets and Ibrahima Sory Bangoura amid wider interest in Genk talent.
Newcastle scout USG’s Anan Khalaili, ditch radical crest redesign, plan European pre-season, Tonali unlikely to return to Serie A, Miley return delayed, and Bruno Guimaraes’ hamstring could sideline him for 10 games.
Everton may be without Carlos Alcaraz and Mark Travers, but Jake O’Brien returns. Tarkowski and Keane are tipped to start, with Branthwaite at left-back. Garner partners Gueye in midfield as they visit Newcastle at St James’ Park.
Opinion piece lauds Eddie Howe: second-highest top-flight win rate, two finals, record 8-0 away win, first domestic trophy in 70 years, Champions League qualification, and overperformance versus wage bill.
Newcastle and Fulham eye Roma’s Zeki Celik, out of contract this summer. The 29-year-old Turkish right-back is seeking €4m a year and could be a longer-term option as Newcastle plan beyond Kieran Trippier.
Report claims Arsenal lead Liverpool and Man United for Anthony Gordon at £75-80m, but the Newcastle forward recently dismissed transfer talk, insisting he is focused on the team.
Newcastle could be without six players. Gordon may start up front, with Elanga, Barnes and Murphy in contention wide. Tonali, Joelinton and Willock are options in midfield. Thiaw is expected to return in defence for Everton’s visit.
