'Be careful' - Eddie Howe ally issues stern Newcastle United warning and Steve Bruce reminder | Chronicle Live

Eddie Howe’s former ghostwriter and close ally, Graham Nickless, has issued a serious warning to Newcastle United fans amid growing criticism of the manager following recent struggles. Nickless, who has followed Howe’s career closely and witnessed his rise from managing Bournemouth in the lower leagues to Premier League success, urged the Newcastle fanbase to remember just how far the club has come under Howe’s leadership. Despite the Magpies slipping to 14th place in the Premier League and appearing shaky on the road this season, Nickless reminded supporters of the club's remarkable achievements in recent years. Nickless highlighted Howe’s transformation of Newcastle United, recalling the time when Steve Bruce was in charge and the team sat second from bottom in the league. He pointed out that Howe has led the club to its first major trophy in 70 years with the Carabao Cup win against Liverpool and secured Champions League qualification twice in four seasons. The journalist also noted the challenges Howe faced during the off-season, such as leading striker Alexander Isak going on strike to force a move to Liverpool and the immediate injury setback for Isak’s replacement, Yoane Wissa. Despite the current dip in form, Nickless expressed disbelief at the level of pressure Howe is under, especially from social media criticism. He emphasized that true Newcastle fans continue to back Howe, who has built Newcastle from a team at risk of relegation into a competitive force both in domestic and European competitions. Nickless sees Howe as an unassuming, hard-working manager who never seeks the limelight but dedicates himself fully to the club’s success. Reflecting on Howe’s arrival in November 2021, Nickless recounted how the manager took time to engage with club legends like Kevin Keegan and Alan Shearer to understand the culture and expectations at St James’ Park. This approach, combined with his meticulous coaching and diplomatic nature, has earned Howe respect among players and fans alike. Nickless also mentioned the difficult backdrop Howe inherited, with Newcastle previously mired in turmoil under former owner Mike Ashley before the Saudi-led consortium took over. Looking forward, Nickless urged fans to be patient and cautious with their expectations, warning that Newcastle’s recent struggles are part of the growing pains on the road to sustained success. He stressed that Howe’s dedication and the club’s upward trajectory should not be taken for granted. Fans who understand the history and the progress made know that losing Howe would be a huge blow. Through all the ups and downs, Nickless remains confident that with Howe in charge, Newcastle United will continue to build on its recent achievements.