Everyone is hurting from our last two results... I'm keen to get going again

HOWE KEEN TO TURN INCONSISTENT MAGPIES' FORTUNES AROUND

- By LEE RYDER

EDDIE Howe admits he will be judged solely on Premier League results by Newcastle United's Saudi backers.

The Toon head coach goes into the topflight battle with Manchester City knowing his side could be plunged closer to the relegation zone, with pressure in danger of building if Newcastle don't see an upturn in fortunes.

However, he did not knock on the boardroom door over the international break to seek assurances or more time to rebuild his squad after a 3-1 loss at Brentford sparked fresh online criticism from some fans.

Ahead of the encounter with City, Howe said: "I haven't really sought that assurance. I don't feel that's right from my perspective. It's about working for me. It's about showing that we have the experience and the expertise to guide us forward, and I need to show that.