Eddie Howe believes that Newcastle United are making progress with their performances and praised his side for their impressive start to the season, stating it is “a step in the right direction”.
Newcastle secured a 2-1 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, moving up to third in the Premier League. Howe’s side now sit level with Arsenal on 10 points, and just two behind leaders Manchester City.
Two second-half goals from Fabian Schar and Harvey Barnes, who scored with a sensational effort from long range, ensured Newcastle came away with all three points from Molineux.
“I think we are stepping forward in terms of our performances. I think it was a step in the right direction,” Howe said to Sky Sports.
“We can improve in lots of different aspects and that is what we are going to be working on this week. We are a really tight-knit group and we have to remain that way.”
Striker Alexander Isak, meanwhile, was replaced at half-time for Barnes, and was part of three substitutions made by Howe for the second period.
The 24-year-old went down injured holding his face in the opening 45 minutes and speaking post-match, Howe stated he was hopeful his potential issue isn’t too serious.
“I think it was more his eye, so I’m not 100 per cent sure what the issue was, but I knew he had to come off and we’ll find out more afterwards,” Howe said.
Pressed on the severity of Isak’s problem, Howe added: “I don’t know. I absolutely hope not. He’s such an important player for us. I don’t know.”
Newcastle are in action at Fulham next Saturday.
(Top photo: Carl Recine/Getty Images)
