Eddie Howe explains why there can't be a Newcastle revolution even if he's about to get ruthless

Newcastle United need to improve because the Magpies have been in a relegation battle 'for a reason' but Eddie Howe has stressed a 'revolution' won't be possible this summer.

Newcastle were second from bottom and without a win when Howe was appointed last November, but the head coach has since overseen a remarkable turnaround. So much so, Newcastle are mathematically safe with two games to go.

Hard work and togetherness have been at the heart of Newcastle's transformation under Howe while January was a game changer after £93m was spent on Bruno Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn, Chris Wood and Matt Targett (loan). Newcastle will make further signings in the summer, but the message from the top has been one of evolution rather than revolution - even if players will also move on for the first time under Howe.

"It's going to evolution. I don't think there can be a revolution," Howe told BBC Radio 5 Live. "There's going to be small improvements, small adjustments, because I don't think any team can revolutionise in a couple of months, but we definitely need to improve because we've been in a relegation battle for a reason and it's very difficult to turn that upside down immediately.

"I have to say the players deserve huge credit for what they've done since I've been here. I'm full of compliments for the team spirit and the unity and, again, our supporters at the end were incredible."