In a stunning revelation that will shock Newcastle United supporters, defender Dan Burn has confessed he came agonisingly close to abandoning his Tyneside dream during a turbulent period last season.
The towering Geordie centre-back, who has become a cult hero at St James' Park, admitted his future hung in the balance during what he described as "the toughest period" of his Newcastle career.
The Breaking Point
"There was a moment last season where I thought my time might be up," Burn revealed in an emotional interview. "I wasn't playing as much, and when I did feature, my performances weren't at the level I expect of myself."
The 31-year-old defender, who joined his boyhood club from Brighton in January 2022, found himself grappling with form and confidence in a way he'd never experienced before.
Howe's Masterstroke Intervention
What changed everything was a crucial heart-to-heart with manager Eddie Howe, whose man-management skills proved instrumental in turning around Burn's fortunes.
"The gaffer pulled me aside and we had a proper conversation about where I was at," Burn explained. "He was brilliant with me - he showed belief when I needed it most and outlined exactly what I needed to do to get back into the team."
Howe's faith was rewarded spectacularly as Burn rediscovered his best form, becoming an integral part of Newcastle's defence during their impressive Champions League campaign.
Bilbao's Lingering Shadow
The interview also touched upon persistent transfer speculation linking Burn with a surprise move to Athletic Bilbao, given his family connections to the Basque region.
While acknowledging the "special pull" of the Spanish club, Burn was unequivocal about his commitment to Newcastle: "This is my club. I'm a Geordie playing for Newcastle United - there's no better feeling in football."
From Doubt to Determination
Burn's journey from potential exit to established first-team regular serves as a powerful testament to both his mental resilience and Eddie Howe's management prowess.
"Every player goes through difficult patches," Burn reflected. "What matters is how you respond. The support I received from the manager, my teammates, and especially the fans helped me through it."
Now firmly reestablished as a key figure in Howe's plans, Burn's story adds another layer to the remarkable transformation underway at Newcastle United under their astute manager.
