'Newcastle will want Barcelona' - Gayle

Former Newcastle forward Dwight Gayle says the clubs' owners will be "very happy" they appointed Eddie Howe after their 2021 takeover because of the journey he has taken the Magpies on since his appointment.

Howe has followed up ending the clubs' long wait for silverware by winning the Carabao Cup last season with qualifying his side for the Champions League knockout stages for the first time.

Advertisement

"It's been absolutely amazing," Gayle told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.

"I think Newcastle's owners with the takeover looked for someone who they could keep for 10 years and take the club forward.

"In terms of bringing the club together, the players around, and the fans - they almost feel like one.

"I'm sure they will be very happy at that decision and Eddie Howe has taken them to the next stage in terms of winning a trophy and now being in the last 16 of the Champions League which is such an amazing feat.

"I'm so pleased for all the boys who have been there throughout all of this as well. To see them being successful is amazing and I'm sure they'll be really confident going into the next round.

Advertisement

"They have got a lot of players who have come back from injury and they look really strong now. I think they will be full of confidence going into that round of 16."

The Magpies can now look forward to Friday's draw knowing either Chelsea or Barcelona wait in the round of 16.

"Knowing a lot of the boys, I think they will want Barcelona," Gayle added.

"They will be less equipped for Newcastle's counter-attacks and their high line can be caused problems by fast attackers.

"Eddie will be absolutely buzzing to get to grips with the tactical side of things and I think he'd come up with a cunning plan to look after the attacking threat of Barcelona as well. That is a tie that the boys would be buzzing with."

Click here to read article