Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says the FA Cup remains magical and was the tournament that made him fall in love with football.
The Magpies have won the famous trophy six times, but have not lifted it since 1955. They begin this season’s campaign on Sunday against League Two side Bromley, but Howe says the competition retains its charm.
He said: ‘This is still the FA Cup and in my mind that hasn’t changed at all.
“The FA Cup was the competition that fascinated me with football itself when I was a kid. The finals tournament and the drama it brought was one of the things that hooked me early on in the game.
“The name FA Cup remains the same. There’s still some magic left in it.”
Star striker Alexander Isak will not be at risk against the lower league sides after being substituted at Arsenal in midweek.
Eddie Howe on his return to St James’ Park:
“The three away games were great days for us but we were tired. It was good to be back at home and we’re getting a bit of run at home now. In games like this, it’s never easy, home or away. “Not traveling, but I think it’s great.” pic.twitter.com/PS98AXrDhl
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 10, 2025
The Swedish striker scored the opening goal in the 2-0 win and now has 10 goals in his last nine games for the club.
Mr Howe said: He is currently having his health checked. I gave him a few days off and he’s in good shape so I’ll get a good look at him tomorrow (when) and report back.
“Initial diagnosis does not appear to be a serious injury, but fingers crossed.
“We probably would have had him in this game in some way, but given what happened, he will be given some rest in this game and get fit for the upcoming schedule. I guess.”
Howe wants Dubravka to stay
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka’s contract expires in the summer, and there are rumors that he could leave the club this month.
Dubravka has played every game since mid-December due to injury to Nick Pope, and Howe hopes to keep him around longer.
He said, “He’s still here and contributing a lot to what we’re trying to do and playing really well.”
“There is always the question that Martin, like all players whose contracts expire in the summer, is in a difficult situation. He will naturally want some closure on his future – and that is why he is with us. Whether it’s a new contract or whatever the outcome is.
“I’m really happy with him and he’s played his role well in the recent games. I thought he was a really good player against Arsenal, so we’ll try to reach some kind of agreement with him. I hope so.”
