Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle United, is excited about the upcoming match against Bayer Leverkusen, a team that is just one point behind them in the group phase. The Magpies are currently fourth in the Bundesliga table, 14 points behind leaders Bayern Munich. This midweek match in Germany will be a crucial test for Howe's team, as they look to boost their hopes of progressing in the competition. With three wins out of five games so far this term, Howe's side is ready to take on the challenge.
Howe believes that the match will provide a valuable indicator of his team's progress ahead of a busy month of action. He spoke to the media at the BayArena on Tuesday, highlighting the strengths of his opponents.
On Bayer Leverkusen, Howe said, "Leverkusen are an outstanding football team, true to their identity. It will be another test of how far we have come and how far we have to go." He emphasized the importance of the match, as it will provide a clear picture of his team's current form and potential.
Regarding team selection, Howe mentioned that they will choose a strong lineup for both the midweek match and the Tyne-Wear derby on Sunday. He acknowledged that they have some injuries in their backline, which has been a recurring issue. However, he expressed confidence in his squad's ability to handle the challenges.
Howe also discussed Yoane Wissa, who made his Magpies debut in the win over Burnley. He praised Wissa's positive attitude and body language, stating that he is ready to take on more minutes. However, he also acknowledged the limited training time between games, which is a challenge for the team's development.
Despite the intense week of preparation, Howe expressed excitement and anticipation for the upcoming matches. He described it as a tough game for his team but also an opportunity to showcase their progress and determination.
