Eddie Howe defends Newcastle players after Europa League place slips from grasp

Eddie Howe has stood behind his players after Europa League qualification slipped through Newcastle’s grasp.

The Magpies were dumped out of Europe after their 2-1 home defeat to AC Milan on a night where they looked destined to qualify (13 December).

“We’re desperately disappointed. It’s tough to take at the moment,” The Newcastle boss told press post-match.

“If you look at the goals we’ve conceded, they’ve come from mistakes that can happen in any moment, whether you’re being proactive or reactive. So of course I take ownership of that.”

Newcastle were in their first Champions League campaign since 2002, and registered a famous 4-1 win over PSG at St James’ Park in October.