Matt Targett was not recalled by Newcastle United in the end
10:46, 04 Feb 2026
Matt Targett of Middlesbrough in action
Matt Targett of Middlesbrough in action(Image: Richard Lee/Shutterstock)
Eddie Howe admits that Matt Targett’s desire to stay at Middlesbrough was the biggest factor behind the decision to not recall him.
Of the deals done by Boro in the January transfer window, it’s two moves that didn’t happen that are being heralded as perhaps two of the most important pieces of the business.
Boro rejected approaches for Hayden Hackney during the winter window, as they showed a strong desire to hold on to their prized asset for their promotion push in the second half of the season.
And it says so much about how important Targett has been during his loan spell so far, that him not being recalled by the Magpies - as a clause in the loan deal allowed - is also of such significance for Kim Hellberg’s side.
Explaining why Newcastle eventually came to the decision, Howe told reporters at his latest press conference: "It's not just for our wants and needs There is another side to look at, and that is the player's perspective.
"So I don't think it is wise to force things on players that they don't want because you have to have a harmonious dressing room here.
"You have to have a group that is all aligned in the same direction. And of course that is no criticism of the players, everybody has different contract lengths and they have to think about their long-term futures.
"Certainly, both players are highly valued by us. But we have to make long-term decisions that help the football club on a daily basis."
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Targett joined Boro on a season-long loan in the summer and has started all but two of Boro’s Championship games since his arrival. Despite his importance, there was some doubt over his future at the Riverside last month, owing to the recall clause in the deal, and Newcastle’s injury crisis.
While Howe had previously alluded to the fact that Targett was keen to remain at Boro, and that was something they wanted to respect, their injury crisis left them needing to request an extension on the recall deadline as they looked to protect themselves while still competing in four competitions this term.
Thankfully, their injury picture did improve as the month wore on and with conversations between the two clubs a week before the deadline giving Boro belief that Targett would be remaining, there was a collective sigh of relief by 7 pm on Monday, as the transfer deadline passed with Targett still a Boro player.
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