"Speaking to people within the club" - Keith Downie drops big Newcastle claim involving Howe

Newcastle United have steered clear of the Premier League relegation zone thanks to the man-management of Magpies head coach Eddie Howe, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Howe was appointed as the Tyneside club’s boss in November and he has brought an upturn in fortunes at St James’ Park.

Newcastle went into the weekend sitting 10 points clear of the Premier League’s relegation zone, alleviating fears of Championship football heading to Tyneside.

The Magpies head to Chelsea tomorrow having not been beaten domestically since December 19, a run stretching back nine games.

A trip to Stamford Bridge comes after a 2-1 midweek win over Southampton allowed Newcastle to rack up a third consecutive victory.

The surge up the Premier League table and away from danger has also resulted in Howe being rewarded with February’s Manager of the Month award.

After getting his hands on the prize, Howe was keen to hail the Magpies’ supporters and highlight the key role they have played in Newcastle’s stunning patch of form.

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Downie understands Howe is highly-regarded by his players and those working behind-the-scenes at St James’ Park.

Having interviewed some of Newcastle’s biggest stars, the Sky Sports reporter believes Howe deserves a sizeable amount of credit for dragging the Magpies out of a relegation dogfight.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: “These guys are all performing to a very high standard at the moment.

“Speaking to people within the club, a number of players and having listened to what they’ve said to other people as well, that is coming from the man-management of Eddie Howe.”

Speaking on BBC’s The Footballers’ Football Podcast, striker Callum Wilson admitted