Eddie Howe Athletic Bilbao press conference as illness strikes Newcastle United squad | OneFootball

The Eddie Howe Athletic Bilbao press conference has taken place.

The Newcastle United boss speaking to journalists on Tuesday afternoon.

This is ahead of Wednesday night’s game at St James’ Park

United having won two and lost one of their first three matches in the Champions League.

Newcastle United finding themselves in a top eight automatic qualifying spot for the knockout stages, ahead of the fourth round of matches.

Eddie Howe Athletic Bilbao press conference – 4 November 2025:

“There’s been a bit of illness going through the squad because that’s various players that have picked something up. Sandro initially, Jacob Murphy, Kieran Trippier and now Bruno.

“We’re making a decision on Bruno tomorrow.

“He’s such an important player for us but he’s clearly not been himself and that’s why he missed training today.”

Eddie Howe on bouncing back from Sunday’s 3-1 defeat against West Ham:

“There’s always a feeling of frustration and different emotions when you play that way, that you then try and use to your advantage for the future.

“Historically, we’ve responded pretty well.

“We’ve tried to use performances like that as a catalyst for better, trying to learn from the experience.

“It’s not the first time and it’s not going to be the last.

“With the amount of games, you’re going to have dips in performance but it’s about controlling that and even when you don’t play well, you can still win and we didn’t deliver that aspect on Sunday.”

Eddie Howe on returning to Champions League action:

“It’s a really important game for us.

“We know what we have ahead in the Champions League.

“Athletic Club will provide stiff opposition. Very good defensive team.

“Off the ball, they’ve delivered some really strong performances.

“Our attacking game is going to have to be at its very best.

“Champions League nights are always very special.”

Eddie Howe on the challenge of delivering consistent results:

“I think we are well aware of the season.

“We are right in the midst of a run of games that are hugely enjoyable but hugely challenging.

“We are disappointed with our Premier League form and the inability to string consistent results together.

“Our recent run of games [in all competitions] hasn’t been too bad.

“Results wise, it’s actually been pretty strong but in the Premier League, in particular, we haven’t got those back-to-back wins to elevate ourselves.”

Eddie Howe on Nick Woltemade:

“We are well aware we have thrust him into every game, near enough.

“I thought he looked a little bit fatigued and taking him off [at West Ham] was the case of making a decision I felt would benefit the team and Nick going forward because he’s carrying a lot of load on his shoulders.