Waugh: Howe was afforded an extension under Dan Ashworth during the summer of 2022 and, in secret, he was given another deal the following off-season. That was only revealed in July last year by Eales when he was asked directly by The Athletic during a video call with reporters.

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has ruled out using Joelinton as an emergency centre-forward - despite the striker crisis at St James' Park. The Brazilian was introduced to fans back in 2019 as a No 9 and thrown in at the deep end as a striker after a £40m move from Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga.

Off Could Define Newcastle’s SeasonNewcastle United have informed key figures around the game that they are prepared to offer a new short-term contract to their star