Newcastle backed to keep Howe, La Manga pre-season set
Paul Merson tips Arsenal to beat struggling Newcastle at the Emirates, saying the hosts must win to stay in the title race, though he notes the fixture is usually physical and competitive.
Predicted XI at Arsenal: Ramsdale; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Miley; Murphy, Osula, Barnes. Gordon and Livramento likely out, Joelinton suspended, Guimaraes fit again.
Newcastle will base pre-season at La Manga, Spain, staying in Europe after 2025’s Asia tour. A Valencia friendly is possible as Howe prioritises football preparation over long-haul commercial trips.
Alan Shearer backs Eddie Howe to stay despite four-game slump and 2-1 loss to Bournemouth, but says big questions remain, including whether players still respond to him and if he wants to continue.
Newcastle step up efforts to sign a £40m Anthony Gordon replacement dubbed ‘the new Sissoko’ as Howe plans summer changes after a faltering campaign.
Former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton reveals he had prostate cancer surgery last year and is now cancer-free, urging awareness after early detection via League Managers Association health checks.
Newcastle weigh St James’ Park redevelopment against a 65,000-70,000 new-build, with Leazes Park and another city-centre site under study. PIF talks loom as legal and environmental checks continue.
