Despite a lackluster 3-0 loss to Everton on Thursday night, Newcastle have enjoyed a respectable season under Eddie Howe.
The Magpies have had to contend with a number of injuries, but their depth has been clear.
True, the club has a long way to go before acquiring the type of roster that wins titles, but under Howe and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), they are on the right track.
Almost without a doubt, the players look to have bought into whatever the manager and his backroom team are trying to do.
Indeed, the current Newcastle set-up is very much in Howe’s image.
In general, they outnumber their opponents by swarming all over them in a high and persistent press that is breathtaking to see. It’s no surprise that St. James’ Park is packed these days.
Newcastle are at their best when they aren’t just pouring forward.
Only 17 goals conceded puts them joint second in the English Premier League, alongside Manchester City, and only Liverpool and Arsenal have a better defensive record at this stage.
Fabian Schar, an ever-present this season and who, according to Football Insider, is about to sign a new contract, is key to their stability.
The outlet note that despite interest from across Europe, Newcastle are hopeful of tying the 31-year-old down to an extension on his current deal, which runs out at the end of the season.
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