Eddie Howe demands Newcastle confidence shift as Everton visit Tyneside

The Magpies returned to Tyneside in high spirits after a dramatic 3-2 Champions League win over Qarabag FK on Tuesday, a result that secured their place in the last 16. That victory ended a run of four consecutive away matches, but Howe made it clear that restoring strong home form was now the priority.

"It is amazing to be back at home," Howe said. "We have to build our rhythm back at St James' Park. Tuesday was a result we definitely needed, and we want to get our home form back to its best."

Newcastle had lost their previous two home games before beating Qarabag, and Howe knows consistency on home soil will be crucial in the weeks ahead.

The manager also delivered important injury updates. On Tino Livramento, he said: "I think Tino will be early March. He has done well, he has been training and running for a period of time. I think when he comes back, he will be in a good place."

Jacob Ramsey could return sooner. "Jacob we hope will train today, so fingers crossed for tomorrow," Howe added.

However, there was more caution regarding Lewis Miley. "We have to be careful with Lewis, he has had a couple of injections, we are looking at a couple of weeks for him. If we don't get the management of this injury right, he could be out for the season."

Despite recent ups and downs, Howe insisted the mood in the squad remained positive. "I have seen a good response from everybody. There is a really good feeling between the players. The feeling is really high. The most important thing for us now is to look forward."

Looking ahead to Everton, Howe expects a stern test from David Moyes' side. "It is a big game for us. Everton have done well on their travels - their away form has been good. David's teams are always difficult to score against.

"Our attacking play has to be really good and our defensive mentality has to improve."

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