Eddie Howe makes claim about Man City fans as Newcastle lose at the Etihad

The Magpies boss feels the home supporters played a big part in Manchester City’s 5-0 win.
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Eddie Howe has praised Manchester City’s home supporters after Newcastle United lost 5-0 at the Etihad on Sunday

Goals from Raheem Sterling (2), Aymeric Laporte, Rodri and Phil Foden wrapped up an important victory for City, who now sit three points clear of Liverpool at the top of the league after they drew with Tottenham Hotspur the day before.

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The win also means City end a disappointing week on a positive note, following Wednesday’s Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid.

Manchester City enjoyed a comfortable win at Etihad. Credit: Getty.Manchester City enjoyed a comfortable win at Etihad. Credit: Getty.
Manchester City enjoyed a comfortable win at Etihad. Credit: Getty.

If there were any frustrations from City’s supporters about that capitulation in the Spanish capital, they certainly didn’t let it show on Sunday.

The Sky Blues’ home fans were in fine voice for long spells of the afternoon, something Howe commented on in his post-match press conference.

“Manchester City can do that [win 5-0] to anyone,” he said. “I thought the crowd were really good for them right from early on. There was a really good atmosphere.

Eddie Howe feels Newcastle are a long way off City’s levels. Credit: Getty.Eddie Howe feels Newcastle are a long way off City’s levels. Credit: Getty.
Eddie Howe feels Newcastle are a long way off City’s levels. Credit: Getty.
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“Individually, we didn’t get the details right today; we lost a runner for the first goal, conceded from two set-plays. Two corners… when you think of all the ways they can score against you, that’s a no-go. You can’t do that here or you’ll be facing an uphill task.

“There’s a huge gap between us and Manchester City and Liverpool,” he added. “But I’d say it’s the same gap for most clubs in the Premier League. Now we have to try to close that gap through the seasons.”

Pep Guardiola was asked for his thoughts on Howe’s comments, and was in agreement that the home supporters spurred City onto victory against the Magpies.

“In the locker room, most of time with the players we talk about our away fans being really good,” he said.

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“Sometimes I say to the players we have to play good to lift our fans to let the opponent feel that here is not a nice place to come. But today we didn’t need to make a good performance or good actions to do that.

“They absolutely deserve my admiration. They are one of the best groups I’ve ever had in my entire life as a manager, even as a player.”