Eddie Howe sends a heart-touching message to fans to face top-four push

Eddie Howe believes their European ambitions will not be jeopardized by Sunday’s EFL Cup final defeat to Manchester United.

When the Magpies faced the Red Devils in the EFL Cup final on Sunday, they were hoping to win their first major domestic title since winning the FA Cup in 1955.

Man United took a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to a Casemiro header and a deflected strike from Marcus Rashford.

While Newcastle attempted to claw their way back into the game, they were ultimately defeated 2-0, extending their wait for silverware.

Howe told the media after the final that he is already “desperate” to return to Wembley with Newcastle in the future.

“We’re left with a feeling of defeat in the final, which is never nice, and we’re desperately disappointed,” Howe told reporters.

“But, for me, you’re already looking to the future, and you’re desperate to get back here and win a trophy. The supporters have been absolutely incredible for us this year, and disappointing them at the end hurts terribly.

“The motivation and the thoughts have already turned to how we can get back here and win them the trophy that they deserve.

“However, we must improve. We can’t stand still, we can’t believe we’re something at this point in time; we have to prove it and move on.”

Newcastle are currently fifth in the Premier League table, four points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who have played two more games.

Although his team is “disappointed,” Howe believes the result will not jeopardize their chances of qualifying for the Champions League.

“I don’t think it’ll be an issue,” he said of the possibility of an EFL Cup final hangover. “These players have responded to every question posed to them this season.

“They will be disappointed today, and we have a very difficult game coming up” (Manchester City away).

“It’s probably the most difficult game on the football calendar, but it’ll be a great challenge for us.”

Newcastle will look to snap a four-game losing streak in all competitions when they face Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.