Eddie Howe has spoken ahead of Manchester United against Newcastle United.
This is the only Premier League match to be played on Boxing Day.
Kick-off takes place at Old Trafford on Friday evening at 8 p.m.
Manchester United are currently seventh in the table, five places ahead of Newcastle United.
However, Eddie Howe’s side could move above Man U if they win at Old Trafford.
Eddie Howe speaks ahead of Manchester United against Newcastle United – December 23, 2025:
Eddie Howe confirms that Newcastle United have contacted PGMOL requesting clarity and information regarding the decision not to award a penalty for Trevor Chalobah’s challenge on Anthony Gordon:
“A phone call has already come in.
“We just want to know the thought process behind the decision.”
Eddie Howe asked about Newcastle United’s longest break between games (six days, between Chelsea on December 20 and Man U on December 26), not including international breaks, since August:
“It’s a strange feeling for us because we’re in that playing rhythm and we turn it around very quickly to prepare for the next game almost immediately.
“It was nice to have a few days without that intense feeling you always have when you play, giving the players a chance to relax from what is always a highlight of playing and the adrenaline that comes with a match.
“It was a good time, but also an important time in which we do not lose our rhythm and feel reborn.
“Since the last international break, apart from one performance, I think it has been very positive.
“Hopefully the team will get some time with their families, but we will train on Christmas Day.”
Eddie Howe on Manchester United:
“Statistically, they are a lot stronger than last season.
“They have seen great improvements in their overall performance.
“They have been competitive and attacking, they have some big threats.
“I think it will be a very good game, a tough game, for us and a good opportunity to enjoy the magnitude of these games at Christmas.
“The atmosphere will be special, but I think we expect a slightly different Man United.”
Eddie Howe on injuries and availability:
Tino Livramento:
“It’s a difficult one because there is quite a bit of information about Tino.
“We are waiting for a full explanation but hopefully it is not serious at all and he can resume training quite quickly.
“Before we confirm that, we want to be sure that it is correct. We have no clarity on that [yet] but hopefully it’s good news.”
Sven Botman:
“Sven will fall into the category of the group of players that is doing well.
“We hope to get him back soon.
“I’m not 100% sure when that day is.
“He hasn’t trained with the group yet, but potentially good news.
“We don’t think he’s too far away.”
Nick Pope:
“There is a chance [he will be in the matchday squad for Man U].
“He hasn’t trained yet, but we hope he can train today, so let’s see how he does.”
Eddie Howe on Jacob Ramsey:
“That was his best game for us, against Chelsea.
“Athletically he was very good and some of the numbers he produced in that match were elite in terms of the benchmark for midfielders, so I think that’s a great sign.
“The challenge for JJ was that since his injury in Leeds where he twisted his ankle, he had momentum and had to start all over again.
“I think he’s just getting back to his very best level.
“I think the next step for him is to start making an impact in the final third with goals and assists.”
Eddie Howe on dropping points after leading, after the draw against Chelsea after leading 2-0:
“That is something we are constantly working on.
“I think you work on all aspects of your game.
“There are some sort of game management things, but the general things of football coaching don’t change regardless of time.
“Chelsea scored a free-kick from a distance where we are a little disappointed with some details that we could have done better than the actual free-kick.
“And with the second goal from the goalkeeper’s kick we made a few mistakes again.
“They are things we have to focus on, the timing of the goals is actually irrelevant. It’s more about how they are constructed.”
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