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Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Fri 17 April 2026 8:04, UK

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Eddie Howe’s position as Newcastle United boss remains safe despite increasing doubts around his future as they struggle in the Premier League this season.

The Magpies look set to miss out on European football this season as they linger in 14th place after a run of three wins in their last 10 Premier League games.

Howe’s job has come under threat after Newcastle’s CEO, David Hopkinson, recently refused to give any assurances that he would be at the club at the start of next season.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Howe is not under any immediate pressure and the club remain keen to give him time to turn their form around.

Andoni Iraola has been touted as a contender to be Newcastle’s next manager as he prepares to leave Bournemouth, but his situation has not changed any plans at St James’ Park as yet.

Eddie Howe still has credit in the bank with Newcastle’s owners

Some sections of the Newcastle away supporters voiced their discontent towards Howe and the players after their 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace last weekend.

There is a growing feeling that his future is in doubt, but the club are still backing him to lead them towards more success next season.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Eddie Howe leaving Newcastle isn’t certain by any stretch, as he still has the backing of the club’s board for what he’s done.

“As things stand right now, I think Newcastle are planning for life with Howe as the manager.

“He’s still got plenty of credit in the bank, after helping them qualify for two Champions League campaigns and winning that trophy last season as well.

“It would be very harsh, for me, if they were to dispense of Howe, despite their struggles this season.”

Howe wants Jacob Murphy to stay at Newcastle despite contract concerns

Some Magpies fans have used Howe’s preference for certain players against him in recent times, with Murphy being a clear favourite of his due to his energetic performances on the right wing.

The 31-year-old is entering the final year of his contract, but sources have told Football Insider that Howe wants Murphy to sign a new deal to extend his time at the club past 10 years.

He was key to their success last term, with nine goals and 14 assists in 41 games, but his performances have dropped off this season, with four goals and assists each in 40 appearances so far.

Howe’s own future is set to play a huge part in what happens next with Murphy, as a new manager may well look to move him on before he can potentially leave for free next summer.