The Magpies slumped to defeat against Brentford before Eddie Howe staged an emotional Press conference
10:15, 08 Feb 2026Updated 10:19, 08 Feb 2026
Newcastle players and staff apologise to the fans after the defeat against Brentford
Emotionally charged Eddie Howe vowed to rethink Newcastle United’s tactical approach last night during a tough 10-minute Press conference in which he took full responsibility for the 3-2 defeat against Brentford.
As Newcastle sit in 12th place in the Premier League the prospect of a European ticket via the domestic division is now looking like a big ask unless United can effectively put together some title winning form in the last 13 matches. With trips to Man City, Arsenal and Chelsea to come, that is going to be tough.
Howe looked visibily upset as he took his place on the stage in the Press room last night. But said: “There’s a harsh reality for me. I’ve got to think long and hard, not about my effort because I can’t question that about myself, but I think I’ve got to work better, I’ve got to do more.
“I’ve got to take full responsibility for everything you see on the pitch, and I’ve got to work out solutions. I think that’s for me to do. Then, of course, I have to ask the same from the players.”
Howe is not under any immediate threat from the powers that be having received full public backing from CEO David Hopkinson just days ago. Newcastle head to Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, then face Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Saturday night before they battle for a place in the last 16 of the Champions League with Qarabag.
It’s an understatement to say that the trio of fixtures are a pivotal moment for Howe and his team this season.
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Newcastle star apologises for shocking defeat
Kieran Trippier was the only player to front up after the 3-2 loss to the Bees. Trippier satisfied the broadcasting reporters but Newcastle did not send a player to speak to the written media.
The message was that any interviews would be “highly unlikely” after the defeat. Trippier took it on himself to apologise and told Premier League Productions: “The reality is we’re in this position – losing games.
“As players, we need to take a look at ourselves – but in a positive way because there are so many games ahead of us. This season is relentless but it’s up to us senior players now to help the squad.
“The schedule is no excuse. We want to play Champions League football – we need to be there. It’s up to us to take responsibility.
“All we can say is we apologise to the supporters tonight – but we have to put this right on Tuesday.”
Nick Woltemade shows big sign that he’s up for the fight
The German international came on in the second half as one of the two changes Howe made at the break. Woltemade did not score and in truth offered only a moderate threat.
But as Newcastle were awarded a penalty the ex-Stuttgart star was deperate to take the kick and end his own personal drought. Woltemade has not scored since he got a brace in the 2-2 draw with Chelsea back in December.
He had to be held back by Trippier as Bruno prepared to take the spot-kick. Newcastle need any signs of fight available at the moment, and that certainly shone through on a bleak night at St James’ Park.
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