believes a ‘key test for any team is how you respond to setbacks’ as he lays down a challenge to Manchester United ahead of his Newcastle team’s trip to Old Trafford on Wednesday.
The Magpies go to Manchester in the fourth round of the League Cup in a rematch of last season’s final, which the Red Devils won.
Newcastle did not have the perfect weekend, drawing 2-2 at Wolves, but it was certainly better than Manchester United’s as they were beaten 3-0 at home by local rivals City.
Asked if it is a good time to play the Red Devils, who are struggling with injuries, form and confidence, Howe would not commit, but did say it is a test of any side in trying to bounce back from defeat.
‘Probably better off telling you that after the game!’ Howe told a press conference on Tuesday. ‘ are a top team with top players, they will possibly rotate their squad.
‘That is unclear until we get the teamsheet, but I think one of the key tests for any team is how you respond to setbacks. We had one against recently, I thought it was a good response from the group at the weekend in a really good game at Wolves.
‘I think that’s what you’re looking for when you’re in a manager’s position.’
Howe was not trying to rustle up any extra sentiment ahead of the match after Newcastle’s painful defeat at Wembley last season, saying they are just focussed on progressing in the competition.
Asked if his team were out for revenge, he said: That is not our emotion as I sit here now, my emotion is just to prepare to try and win the game.
‘One win and we’re into the quarter-final of the competition, we loved our run last year and we’re determined to try and do as well as we can despite the fact we do have a few injuries.
‘The squad will be stretched to a degree, but we’ll still try to be competitive.’
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