Marc Guehi has underlined the "difficult" task his Crystal Palace side face this afternoon against [Newcastle United](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/all-about/newcastle-united-fc).
The captain - who was subject of a reported final bid of £70m from Newcastle last summer - has had to get on with life at Selhurst Park since his transfer collapsed. But Palace, who had a strong finish to last term, have been embroiled in a relegation battle and sit second bottom in the table.
When asked about tthe prospect of facing Newcastle today, Guehi, speaking in the Palace programme, said: "We know how difficult this afternoon will be against a Newcastle side chasing European football. But we know that we at Selhurst Park we can beat anybody."
Howe was asked by Chronicle Live about facing up to Guehi for the first time since those transfer talks on the eve of the game, to which he replied: "I'd like to think we know about everyone. That is regardless of the player and opponent.
"It is very difficult to comment too deeply (on Guehi). Marc is somebody we respect. He is a very good player."
Despite Palace's problems and precarious position Howe has respect for Oliver Glasner's Eagles and said: "I don't think it \[their table position\] is a reflection of the strength that they have and how they play. Certainly Selhurst Park is always a difficult place to go to.
"I look back to their win against Tottenham, I thought they played really well and I think their recent results have seen an upturn in performances and results. I think they have been more competitive in the last few games."