Eddie Howe has been talking ahead of Newcastle United taking on Chelsea.
The match schedule continuing to be relentless.
A return to Premier League action as Newcastle United look to put together a late run of league form.
United hoping to follow up that excellent win over Man U in the most recent Premier League match.
Chelsea currently fifth in the table and Newcastle United will close the gap to six points, if getting an away victory at Stamford Bridge.
Eddie Howe speaking at his Newcastle United pre-match press conference ahead of facing Chelsea:
Eddie Howe reflecting on the Barcelona 1-1 draw:
“Players have responded well, big disappointment at the end but a performance full of pride.
“We have another game around the corner, and we can’t let what happened in one game affect the next, the week ahead is a big one.”
Eddie Howe on Chelsea:
“Mental challenges for this game, that we need to try and get right.
“Chelsea is one of the toughest away games you can have so we need to make sure we are focused on them.”
Eddie Howe on Joelinton:
“When Joe plays like he has, he brings that steel mobility to that midfield, he really lifts the team when he is in a good place, he gives so much in every game.
“He has had his injury troubles this year but we are desperate to keep him fit.”
Eddie Howe on Lewis Hall:
“Lewis was a smart piece of business.
“He had a tough first year, he had to really show mental strength and patience, and he has reaped the benefits from grabbing his chance in the team.
“He is currently playing his best football. He has a lot of strengths that a lot of players in his position won’t have and that is why he stands out.”
Eddie Howe on Bruno Guimaraes:
“Bruno is back on Monday, his plan is he wants to come to Barcelona, not in a playing capacity, but to support the lads.
“He has been working incredibly hard on his recovery; I’d like to think by the time the international break has ended he will be back ready for us.”
Eddie Howe on Anthony Gordon:
“He trained yesterday (Thursday) and he is fine.
“He was willing to play in the [Barcelona] game; it was my decision not to start him as he had been ill that morning.”