Eddie Howe is keen to work with the League Managers’ Association to prevent a possible tragedy following his shocking confrontation with a fan.
The Newcastle boss revealed he had received messages of support from LMA boss Richard Bevan after he was shoved and verbally abused by a Leeds fan in the technical area in injury time of Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Elland Road.
A man has been charged with assault and banned for life by the Yorkshire club after leaving Howe visibly shaken.
The 45-year-old thanked Bevan for his support and is keen to work with authorities to step up security measures to prevent a repeat with potentially more serious consequences.
“I got some nice messages from Richard Bevan at the LMA,” Howe said. “They are very good in all situations and in many different moments, so I am very grateful for this support.”
Eddie Howe (left) is keen to prevent future tragedy after being confronted by a spectator during Newcastle’s tie with Leeds
“I’m absolutely fine and more likely to think about future episodes like this and try to prevent them.”
“This incident is done for me, but the only part of it that I have left is the ‘what if’ for the future, that’s my concern.” I would hate to see a tragedy on a football pitch if that could have been avoided.
“I hope that this incident itself can help the authorities and everyone who cares about the safety of the players and staff.” If it actually makes a small change or makes someone think about how we can improve things , then it will have been a really worthwhile episode.”
Third-placed Newcastle can secure a place in the Champions League if they beat Brighton and Leicester at St James’s in the next five days.
Howe’s side faltered after taking a point in their last two games, giving sixth-placed Liverpool hopes of catching them or Manchester United in the race for a place in the top four.
The Reds are a point behind the Magpies after playing a game longer and manager Jurgen Klopp insists his side will try to keep the pressure on after seven straight wins.
“I don’t feel like we’re being hunted,” Howe insisted. “I don’t get that feeling, we’re really against ourselves, that’s how I look at it.” We’re trying to get the best out of ourselves.
“I haven’t focused on any other team all season.” I knew Liverpool were never far away because they are a top team and are capable of similar winning streaks to Manchester City where they can win multiple games , without batting an eyelash.
“They have that experience and I think we can’t look at Liverpool and compare ourselves to them, we have to focus on ourselves.”
“When it’s such a big achievement and you desperately want something, which I’m sure everyone associated with the club is doing, then the hardest thing is to finally get there.”
Howe hopes something good can come of the episode if it means more safety for the coaches
