NEWCASTLE: Eddie Howe believes Newcastle United’s trip to leaders Arsenal is a litmus test for the club’s Champions League ambitions.
The Magpies signed off an impressive 2022 with an underwhelming point against a well-organized but struggling Leeds United side at the weekend — but nevertheless sit in third place in the Premier League as they head to the Emirates.
While Howe has steered clear of talking his team up as title or top-four contenders, he does think taking on the best tomorrow night will show just how far his side have progressed. “We’ll learn a lot,” said the Newcastle head coach. “It’ll be a fascinating and high-level game.
I’ve watched a lot of Arsenal this year and been hugely impressed. I think Mikel (Arteta) has done an incredible job. You look at the turnaround of the team and how they play, their identity is clear every week. “Players look like they’re enjoying their football and playing a high level game.