I take criticism and you know it is part of the job. I encourage it because… – Eddie Howe | OneFootball

Eddie Howe and his team return to Premier League action today.

Newcastle United facing Leicester City at St James’ Park.

A massive week or so and trio of matches coming up before Christmas,

Premier League matches against two struggling sides, plus a cup quarter-final at  St James’ Park.

Many fans and neutrals are seeing this as a potential make or break week of matches for Newcastle United, so is Eddie Howe feeling the pressure and weight of the expectations?

Eddie Howe has been asked about the expectations at Newcastle United and whether he feels the pressure:

“You can never escape pressure.

“It is always there at a club of this size.

“I surround myself with my work and the focus of the work might change, but the ethic and standards I demand of myself, does not change.

“We are always in the pursuit of improvement, regardless of results.

“You are aware of what people may be saying but I don’t absorb any of it.

“I take criticism and you know it is part of the job.

“I encourage it because if it keeps it away from the players, that is crucial.”

Newcastle United upcoming matches:

Saturday 14 December – Newcastle v Leicester (3pm)

Wednesday 18 December – Newcastle v Brentford (7.45pm) Sky Sports+ (Carabao Cup)

Saturday 21 December – Ipswich v Newcastle (3pm)

Thursday 26 December – Newcastle v Villa (3pm) Amazon

Monday 30 December – Man U v Newcastle (8pm) Sky Sports

Saturday 4 January – Tottenham v Newcastle (12.30pm) TNT Sports

Sunday 12 January – Newcastle v Bromley (3pm) BBC iPlayer (FA Cup)

Wednesday 15 January – Newcastle v Wolves (7.30pm) TNT Sports

Saturday 18 January – Newcastle v Bournemouth (12.30pm) TNT Sports

Saturday 25 January – Southampton v Newcastle (3pm)

Saturday 1 February – Newcastle v Fulham (3pm)