Former Newcastle United midfielder Jermaine Jenas has warned head coach Eddie Howe that the club's summer transfer activity will be crucial in determining the level of pressure he faces in the upcoming season. Speaking to 10bet, Jenas highlighted the need for swift and effective recruitment to avoid a repeat of last season's struggles.
Newcastle's disappointing finish
Newcastle slumped to 14th in the Premier League last season after a poor final third of the campaign, marking the first serious dip in form during Howe's four-year tenure. Despite this, the club hierarchy has continued to back Howe, who delivered the club's first domestic silverware in 70 years and twice secured Champions League qualification.
However, the pressure could quickly mount if Newcastle start the new season poorly. Their opening fixtures include a home clash against Liverpool followed by a trip to Tottenham Hotspur, setting a challenging tone for the campaign.
Jenas on transfer urgency
Jenas, who played for Newcastle under Sir Bobby Robson before stints at Tottenham and England, emphasised the importance of getting transfers right this summer. He noted that last year's window was hampered by the Alexander Isak saga, leading to rushed deals for players like Nick Woltemade and the failed pursuit of Yoane Wissa.
"I think he knows he's under pressure," Jenas said. "It was quite a turbulent year last year if you think about their start to the season with the whole Alexander Isak situation. And then they rushed a few transfer deals, didn't they? Bringing in Nick Woltemade and the Yoane Wissa situation didn't quite work out."
Howe's backing and future
Jenas acknowledged that Howe's track record buys him time, but warned that a poor start could intensify scrutiny. "Listen, I think almost any club in the Premier League would take Eddie Howe in a heartbeat. So yes, he's under pressure, but at the same time, you have to factor in that a lot of things went against him last year," Jenas explained.
"With a clean slate, it might be a tough start, but I'd like to see him stay at the football club for a bit longer yet. He brought the first bit of silverware to the club for God knows how long; that's got to buy you at least another year. I think as long as he gets his players in, he'll be fine."
Summer plans
Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson are expected to work swiftly to finalise deals before the season begins, aiming to avoid the distractions that plagued last year's window. The club is reportedly targeting several key positions to strengthen the squad and build on Howe's previous successes.
