Eddie Howe Responds to Comments About Newcastle's Toughness

Newcastle United secured a hard-fought victory against Southampton in their Premier League opener, managing to clinch the win with just ten players on the pitch. As the team gears up for their upcoming match against Bournemouth, manager Eddie Howe reflected on the importance of resilience and determination in their gameplay. Howe emphasized the need for the team to regain the "devilment" that characterized their previous successful season, where they often frustrated opponents and secured wins despite not always dominating matches. Howe expressed satisfaction with the defensive performance against Southampton, particularly noting the team's ability to block shots and protect their goal while playing a man down. He highlighted this as a significant improvement, marking a return to a more robust defensive style that had been lacking in the previous season. However, he cautioned that this performance must be replicated consistently, especially in the challenging environment of away games in the Premier League. Looking ahead, Howe acknowledged the difficulty of upcoming fixtures, stating that every away match presents a unique challenge. He remains focused on building on the positive aspects of their opening game while preparing the squad for the tests that lie ahead. The manager's comments reflect a commitment to fostering a resilient mindset within the team as they aim to establish themselves as a competitive force in the league this season.