Eddie Howe demands focus as Newcastle face Bournemouth in FA Cup

Speaking ahead of the tie, Howe accepted Newcastle's recent FA Cup record had not matched their success elsewhere, despite lifting the Carabao Cup. "We haven't quite matched the success in the Carabao Cup and it is a frustration for us," Howe said.

"The FA Cup is a great competition and the early rounds are more difficult for us. We want to progress and do well in every competition and we can't have our eyes focused on the Man City game."

Fresh from a dramatic 4-3 Premier League win over Leeds United, Howe confirmed changes were likely as Newcastle balance a demanding schedule. "I have to compliment the players fitness-wise," he said. "We have been really good this year when you consider the multi-competitions and the schedule.

"If you look at the other day, I thought we were the stronger team at the end of the game physically. I have to praise the players and the sports science team."

Howe added: "I think we will have to rotate the team and we have done that all season. We will review this game and make the right selections."

Despite rotation, Howe insisted Newcastle would take the tie seriously, especially against a Bournemouth side in good form. "We have been searching for confidence and consistency and the players will feel energised and boosted by three wins," he said. "We can't relax. The momentum has to continue. We will pick a strong team while trusting the squad."

On the January transfer window, Howe struck a cautious note. "At the moment we are taking a watching brief," he said, with Dan Burn's injury under assessment.

He also delivered sobering news on Lascelles: "He is not training with us currently. He hasn't felt well enough physically to train. There is a possibility he could leave, but Jamaal has been an excellent leader for us over the years behind the scenes."

READ MORE: Thomas Frank: Tottenham to 'go full strength' vs Villa in FA Cup clash