Eddie Howe has refused to discount Alan Shearer’s suggestion that Newcastle have entered the title race after nine straight wins, including six in the Premier League.
Newcastle’s manager indicated that, rather than disagree with their former centre-forward, the supporters should dare to dream. “I have no problem with fans getting caught up in any kind of feeling like that,” said Howe. “That’s absolutely encouraged.
“It’s important we recognise our strengths and realise how strong we are. We are a really strong team playing well. I really love our squad. We are in a really good place, we’ve got some very good players and, at this moment in time, we are trying to enjoy what we are doing without thinking too much about the consequences.”
Newcastle are fourth before Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off at home to a Bournemouth side Howe regards as “absolutely european contenders too”.
Given Newcastle start a potentially tricky game nine points behind the leaders, Liverpool, having played a game more, a title challenge appears slightly ambitious.
The same does not apply to the race for Champions League qualification and Howe made clear his team are deadly serious there. “We’ve put ourselves in a really good position,” he said. “So now it’s about foot to the floor.”
He believes Alexander Isak can break Jamie Vardy’s record of scoring in 11 consecutive Premier League games. The Sweden striker has reached eight, taking his season’s tally to 17.
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“I think he’s capable of breaking the record, without a doubt,” said Howe. “I’ve just urged Alex not to think too much about it and just keep enjoying his football. He’s an elite player but he can still improve in lots of areas. There are little tweaks we can help him with to try and help him score even more goals.”
