Eddie Howe loves Kevin Keegan but will be frustrated with comparisons between his Newcastle side and 1990s ‘The Entertainers’ – their current identity of chaos does not match last season’s success built on resilience
Howe acknowledges that this style is not sustainable. The team is both scoring and conceding goals at a rate reminiscent of Keegan’s cavalier era, with their defensive record notably worse than last season. Despite their entertaining style of play, even the coaching staff might not fully endorse it. Howe’s visibly ecstatic celebration with the supporters after a recent win marked a departure from his usual restrained demeanor, indicating a sense of relief and emotion at avoiding a potential defeat.