Newcastle United: Eddie Howe on the value of atmosphere at St James’ Park

The Magpies are set to return to continental competition this autumn for the first time in more than a decade and Howe agrees there needs to be a significant reinforcement of the squad this summer for the club to compete at European and domestic levels.

While the progress on the pitch that has been evident this season will clearly help Newcastle attract potential signings and finances will also be a factor, Howe would like to emphasize the importance of the atmosphere at St James’ Park and the nature and Highlighting the way the club works Supporters have been a key part of this year’s success.

The gaming experience at St James’ has completely changed since Amanda Staveley’s Saudi-backed consortium replaced Mike Ashley in the boardroom, which hasn’t gone unnoticed across the footballing world.

“I’m sure it helps,” said Howe, speaking ahead of tonight’s final home game of the season against Leicester City, where a draw will be enough to secure a Champions League spot.

“When people are watching, no matter where in the world they are, they experience an incredible spectacle and feel the atmosphere and feel of St. James’ Park.

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“You can see the cohesion of the whole club. Hopefully they also see that a team is performing well and that Newcastle is a great place to play football at the moment.”

With his side back in Europe and having spent most of the season inside the top six, Howe reckons expectations will be significantly higher next season.

“The expectation is the challenge,” he said. “Suddenly everything is exalted and then it becomes normal.

“If you finish fourth, fifth or sixth, anything below that is considered a failure – and that’s very difficult because the challenge of the Premier League is so great. But that applies to next year, not now.”