Eddie Howe’s plans may be a shock to the system for some Newcastle players: Our View

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Eddie Howe has already set about establishing his favoured formation at Newcastle United ahead of the manager’s debut in the Toon dugout against Brentford, per Chronicle Live.

The 43-year-old will oversee his first match in charge of United when they host the Bees on Saturday. Howe has not stood on a touchline since Bournemouth beat Everton in July 2020.

Howe walked away from Dean Court after winning at Goodison Park on the final day of the 2019/20 season. After results elsewhere relegated the Cherries, despite beating the Blues.

Aston Villa clinched a vital draw at West Ham United to ensure they moved above Howe’s Bournemouth. Ending the south coast side’s stay in the Premier League after five-years.

Howe will now look to claim his 57th top-flight win when Newcastle welcome Brentford to St James’ Park. Getting his Toon tenure off to the perfect start and ending their winless run.

Newcastle hired Howe on November 8 to replace Steve Bruce at the helm with the club in the relegation zone. They also only sit above 20th-place Norwich City on goal difference.

Howe had the international break to run the rule over his Magpies squad and to set out his targets. He also gave the players a crash course on his favoured system over the weekend.

The United boss worked to give his squad an understanding of how they will now play his preferred 4-4-2 formation. With Newcastle possibly going aggressive against Brentford.

Howe a shock to the system for Newcastle players

Howe wanting Newcastle to play aggressively in a 4-4-2 could be a shock to the system for some players. United have only used a four-at-the-back three times in the league this term.

Bruce tried a 4-1-4-1 shape at home to Tottenham Hotspur last month, and away to Wolves and Watford. But took one point across the three games, with a 1-1 draw at Vicarage Road.

Spurs and Wolves also controlled proceedings, while Watford punished Newcastle for their missed chances. And performances barely improved under interim boss Graeme Jones, as the Magpies sat deep in a bid to defend against Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Brighton.