Eddie Howe (left) and Enzo Maresca will tussle at St james' Park this afternoon.placeholder image
Eddie Howe (left) and Enzo Maresca will tussle at St james' Park this afternoon. | Getty Images
Newcastle United’s opponents have been rocked by speculation in midweek that their manager could join Manchester City.
Enzo Maresca has rubbished claims that he could leave Chelsea at the end of the season.
Newcastle United welcome the Blues to St James’ Park today knowing a win could see them move within three points of the visitors - who sit fourth. The tight nature of the Premier League this season has not cut the Magpies adrift despite an underwhelming campaign.
Eddie Howe’s men beat Fulham in midweek to progress to the Carabao Cup semi-final. However, even the most rose-tinted Toon fan would admit that has lifted the mood around Tyneside following last week’s derby defeat to Sunderland.
Eddie Howe on Chelsea test
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Howe praised Chelsea and their Italian manager. He said: "They are progressing and continuing to get better. They have a very good manager, style of play and team, so we are going to have to be very good. They will pose us some problems if our defensive work isn't of the highest level."
Enzo Maresca grilled on Chelsea future
Bizarre reports emerged earlier this week suggesting Maresca could succeed Pep Guardiola as Manchester City boss. He previously worked as under-23s and as assistant coach at the Etihad but, ahead of Chelsea’s trip to Tyneside, has distanced himself from the speculation.
“It doesn’t affect me at all because I know it is 100 per cent speculation and in this moment there is no time for these kind of things,” Maresca said. “First of all, I have a contract here until 2029 and my focus is just on this club and I am very proud to be here.
“It is speculation, one week ago in Italy it was the same with Juventus. I don’t pay attention because I know it’s not true. It’s just speculation. Now it’s important to understand why this news was there but it is just speculation, I don’t care at all. I think the players are focused on the Newcastle game that is important and very difficult.
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‘Always difficult’ - Enzo Maresca
Maresca also highlighted Newcastle’s midfield as a problem area for his team. He added: “For me, playing at Newcastle is always difficult. Night or day, they are a very good team. Their manager is fantastic and has done a superb job for many years. They have a very strong side, especially in midfield.
“Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, (Lewis) Miley also, they are all fantastic players, all international players and they complete each other. They are physically strong and very good on the ball. It's difficult for any team to face them.”
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