Newcastle United return to Premier League action with a trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers this afternoon (kick-off 4:30pm).
The Magpies head to Molineux aiming to extend their unbeaten start to the new campaign after beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 before the international break. While results have been positive, Eddie Howe is under no illusions that his side need to improve their general performance.
“We’ve had some very good results – really pleased with the start we have made in what is a difficult league,” said Howe. “Performance-wise, we haven’t hit top gear. We are going into a spell where we have difficult games away from home.”
And Howe will be hoping a number of his players take their international form into the coming weeks. Alexander Isak scored three goals in two games for Sweden while Sandro Tonali starred for Italy, playing back-to-back full matches in wins over France and Israel.
“I was pleased to see him play. He has performed well – those games would have done him the world of good,” said Howe. “It’s the first few steps for him, we are delighted he is available for us. Sandro has that flair and ability to make the difference. He is a player we absolutely love.”
And there was, of course, Anthony Gordon who, after a disappointing summer at Euro 2024 under Gareth Southgate was handed back-to-back starts from interim boss Lee Carsley.