Joelinton’s injury changes, Howe’s confidence and Ipswich’s struggles

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says his side struggled in a difficult game but managed to hold on for victory against Ipswich.

Howe’s side beat Leicester 4-0 last weekend and followed that up with a 3-1 win over Brentford in the Carabao Cup quarter-final in midweek.

Prior to that, the Magpies had gone four games without a win but Howe is ready to see more points – and goals – over the Christmas period.

He said: “We’re human and I think there have been – a little bit at times in some games – trust issues.

“But I think you’ve seen the improvement in the team in the last two games. I’d probably say three of the last four have been as strong, as strong as we’ve seen this season.

“I think that’s a good sign. I think we’re scoring goals again, which is a confidence booster.

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— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 20, 2024

“Three goals one night and it could have been more goals from different parts of the pitch, which we haven’t had this season.

“We’ve always had the same goals from everywhere. I think it’s a very important part and it was good to see Sandro (Tonali) coming up with two big goals for us.

“I think if you believe you can score from multiple areas, areas of the team, that raises your mood.”

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Callum Wilson is also a long-term miss as the striker struggles with injury, while midfielder Joelinton is out for the Ipswich game.

Mr Howe said: “Joelinton is fine, just a bit of a knock and a bruise, yesterday he had a bit of a cut I believe, around his ear, which was fragile.

“He had a cut on his mouth, so I think, maybe, since he’s not available this week, maybe it’s a good thing for him because it allows him to rest the bruises and the sores and then hopefully be fit next week.”

Howe in Ipswich: “We know Portman Road, and Ipswich is a tough game, a very competitive team.

“I think Kieran (McKenna) has done an amazing job there and even the games they’ve lost this season, they’ve been in all these games, very tough games, very competitive team like I said.

“So we have to be alert to prepare for the game.”