(MENAFN- The Peninsula) AFP
London: Eddie Howe has been given no guarantees that Newcastle's Saudi owners will allow him to solve the team's problems by splashing out on new players in the January transfer window.
Howe's side are languishing in ninth place in the Premier League and have crashed out of the Champions League in a dismal end to 2023.
The Magpies head to Premier League leaders Liverpool on New Year's Day having lost six of their last seven games in all competitions.
The Newcastle hierarchy have invested around £400 million ($509 million) in the four transfer windows since they took control of the club.
For the first time in Howe's reign, the 46-year-old admits he has not been told to expect a further cash injection in January.
"No, we haven't had those assurances," Howe told reporters on Friday. "I think it's a difficult month, as we always say when January comes around.
Read Also
Man City's Grealish burgled during match Nadal 'feeling good' but plays down Australia expectations Lopez content with preparations as Qatar gear up for title defence
"I apologise if I sound like I'm saying the same things, but it is a very difficult month to bring in quality players.
"Financial Fair Play continues to play a part in our decision-making, so let's wait and see."
Newcastle's woes have been compounded by a lengthy injury list and the likes of Harvey Barnes, Joe Willock, Jacob Murphy and Elliot Anderson can't return to fitness soon enough for Howe.
But with Newcastle eight points behind the fourth place in which they finished last season, the pressure is starting to mount on Howe.
The former Bournemouth boss's job appears safe, in the short term at least, and he insists he can cope with the increased scrutiny.
"I don't look at it like I'm in the spotlight now. I'm always in the spotlight and criticism is part of this job. It goes hand in hand with it," he said.
"You say I haven't been criticised, but it just goes with the territory. I've learned to accept and understand that and -- no disrespect -- but to blank it out and make sure I help the players. That hasn't changed for me."
MENAFN29122023000063011010ID1107669376
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.