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Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson | InsiderMedia
David Hopkinson addressed Newcastle United staff following the 2-1 defeat to Sunderland.
David Hopkinson reportedly emailed all Newcastle United staff to insist the club’s “conviction remains undiminished” following the Sunderland defeat.
In a video call-out to over 500 workers, the new Toon CEO also referenced legendary American football coach Vince Lombardi. The mood on Tyneside has plummeted to an all-time low following the Tyne-Wear derby loss.
Euphoria emanated around St James’ Park when Anthony Gordon gave Newcastle an early lead after 10 minutes. However, after Brian Brobbey’s stoppage-time winner completed a dramatic Black Cats comeback, the boos inside the stadium were tangible.
The fall-out has already centred around Howe's future, with a growing number of fans calling for his head after consecutive Sunderland capitulations. Newcastle sit 12th in the Premier League - behind their bitter rivals - and four points off a Europa League spot.
David Hopkinson’s leaked Newcastle United email
The Times have revealed Hopkinson’s attempts to lift the spirits in the wake of the derby defeat. In an address to club staff, the Canadian said: “It hurts us because we care. It’s adversity, and adversity does not define us - it reveals us.
“There’s a great quote from Vince Lombardi (the legendary former American football coach); it’s not whether or not you get knocked down, it’s how you get up. So we will have a tough day and then we’ll get up. We’re building something very real here.
“That journey is not a straight line. Yesterday feels heavy, and it is, but that’s ok - we won’t carry it for very long. Our enthusiasm and our conviction will remain undiminished.”
Newcastle United stance
The shot-callers at St James' Park will not react hastily regarding the manager. There is an understanding at boardroom level of the mitigating factors behind Newcastle’s underwhelming campaign.
NewcastleWorld understands that Howe - for now - will be given the opportunity to set the record straight this summer. With sporting director Ross Wilson and CEO Hopkinson in place, there is optimism that Newcastle are in a better place to attack the summer window.
Recognition remains of Howe's achievements - including two Champions League qualifications and a Carabao Cup trophy. As long as the atmosphere inside the ground does not turn toxic - and Newcastle’s form avoids nosediving further - their position will not change.
Eddie Howe unwavering Newcastle United commitment
Speaking post-match, Howe vowed to fight on - insisting he is “fully committed” to Newcastle. He told reporters: “I am committed, fully committed. I'm disappointed in myself and my delivery today over the last week. The Barcelona game was very tough. Today is even tougher.
“Yeah, I mean, I always, as I said after the Brentford game, absorb myself and don't look to deflect it to my players, I protect my players to my last breath. That is how I look at it. It is going to be a tough, painful few days for me.”
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