(Credit: Hasan Karim - Breaking Media)

Jack Dawson

Fri 6 February 2026 7:00, UK

Newcastle United are set to host Brentford on Saturday in a clash that could decide Eddie Howe’s long-term future at St James’ Park.

The Magpies are on a dreadful run of form, and their exit in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday now means they are winless in their last four games in all competitions.

As a result, Howe is increasingly tipped to be the next manager to leave in the Premier League, with European qualification on the line.

With Brentford up next on Saturday, the manager could restore some trust if he were to pick up three points at St James’ Park against a fellow European qualification rival.

However, a defeat would no doubt humiliate Howe and the Magpies.

Next Up: Newcastle (A) ⚫️⚪️ pic.twitter.com/7et97oID7h

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 4, 2026

Brentford eyeing their first league double over Newcastle since 1935

While Brentford have been in fine form this season, a victory for Newcastle will still be expected on Saturday.

Many of the Bees’ points come from their home dominance, with the London side losing eight of their 12 away games this season.

However, according to BBC Sport on 5 February, if they were to overcome this and take three points at St James’ Park, it would be only their second-ever league double over Newcastle, with the last happening in the 1934-35 campaign.

If this were to occur, it would surely mean the end of Howe’s reign at the Magpies.

A defeat could see Newcastle fall to 13^th in the table and potentially six points off eighth.

Therefore, it would be extremely hard to see Howe suffering a defeat, especially if it were a comprehensive one.

Newcastle’s record vs Brentford explained

Luckily for Howe, Newcastle’s record against the Bees is a strong one.

Since Brentford reached the Premier League in 2021, there have been 10 clashes between the two sides, with Magpies winning seven. This includes a big 5-1 victory in 2022 and a 4-2 away win in 2024.

However, Brentford have started to pick up victories themselves, with two of the last four matches ending in three points for the Bees, including the 3-1 win against Newcastle in the last clash between the sides.

Therefore, Howe will be looking to avoid a repeat of this and finally return the Magpies to form.