Newcastle-Milan match has ‘hallmarks of being special’

Author: BBC Sport

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe believes Wednesday’s Champions League match with AC Milan “has got all the hallmarks of being a special game”.

Newcastle must beat Milan at St James’ Park to reach the knockout stages and hope Paris St-Germain do not beat already qualified Borussia Dortmund.

The Magpies are third in Group F, level on points with Milan and two points behind second-placed PSG.

“It would be an incredible achievement if we could do [qualify],” said Howe.

“I think we are very positive going into the game. All we can do is try and give our best performance, we will try everything.

“We have worked so hard to be in this position in the first place. Our intention, myself, the players, the coaching staff is to win the match.”

The Magpies drew 0-0 against Milan in the reverse fixture in September.

Their hopes of progression would have been in their own hands if they had beaten PSG in their last European match, but Howe’s side conceded a late equaliser after a controversial penalty decision.

Newcastle have a number of long-term injury concerns, including goalkeeper Nick Pope who requires shoulder surgery and is expected to be sidelined for four months.

But midfielder Sean Longstaff and striker Callum Wilson could start having returned as substitutes in Sunday’s 4-1 loss to Tottenham.

“I have some big calls to make for the first time in a long time,” added Howe.

“It was great to see them both back involved, but we will need to make the right decision for the team.”