Overview
- Eddie Howe said the club’s stadium and training-ground projects are in “limbo” and estimated a 99.9% chance he will not be manager when they are completed.
- CEO David Hopkinson has indicated Newcastle will remain at St James’ Park in its current format for years while options for redevelopment or a new build are assessed.
- Incremental upgrades continue at the Benton training base and nearby academy facilities, though the hierarchy accepts the site cannot be the long-term solution.
- Following a 1-0 defeat at Manchester United, local reporting says Hopkinson and sporting director Ross Wilson are monitoring Howe’s position but prefer to give him time.
- Newcastle’s league form remains below expectations, with six wins in 20, and the board views January and upcoming fixtures, including Burnley, as key to near-term decisions.