Howe: Sir Bobby Would Have Enjoyed Both Teams' Efforts
Saturday, 21st Dec 2024 20:56
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe said Sir Bobby Robson, a legend with the Magpies and Town, would have enjoyed the way both teams played during his side’s 4-0 victory over the Blues at Portman Road.
Sweden international Alexander Isak netted a hat-trick for the visitors, while Jacob Murphy netted the other goal for the visitors, who moved to seventh in the division.
Howe was asked whether Robson, who was featured in the match programme and on the scoreboard before kick-off, while his favourite song _My Way_ was played over the PA, would have enjoyed the way the game was played.
“I think he would have done. I think he would have enjoyed both teams’ efforts,” he said.
“I think Ipswich are a very good team, I watched a lot of them in the build-up to the game. Very competitive and I think we were helped by scoring so early today.
“I think in the second half, they showed their character, they never stopped going, they caused us problems, so I think he would have been proud of both teams’ efforts.”
The win was Newcastle’s third on the bounce in all competitions in a eight days following a tough-to-take 4-2 defeat at Brentford early this month.
“It’s been a great response from everybody,” he reflected. “That Brentford game was a difficult day for us. It goes to show how quickly football can change in every week, good or bad, which is why we stay very level. After today’s game, we’re pleased but we now have big games to come.”
Howe was shocked Isak hadn’t previously scored treble for the Magpies: “I’m surprised it has taken Alex this long to get a hat-trick with the qualities he has.
“I know he has got a lot of individual goals, a lot of doubles but I am pleased because it is a unique thing.
“It is a game he’ll never forget, his first hat-trick for Newcastle is a big moment and we take great pride in our players performing well. Hopefully there is another around the corner.”
He added: “He is a world-class talent and the way he took his goals today, he has got that coolness in front of goal, that composure that very few players have.
“When you add his other qualities into the mix, how quick he is, how technically gifted he is, for me, he has got it all.”
Howe dismissed the suggestion that Newcastle might look to move Isak on in order to keep within FFP rules.
“It makes me laugh,” he said. “There is no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go. He is very much part of our long-term plans and personally, I don’t see that being an issue.”
_TWTD_
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