Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has played down comparisons between himself and the late Sir Bobby Robson. Howe is preparing to lead the Magpies into a cup final for the first time next week, achieving a feat never managed under Sir Bobby during his five-year stint at St James' Park at the turn of the century.
Howe has only been on Tyneside for little over a year but his impressive work thus far has already put him in the same bracket as Robson and Kevin Keegan in the eyes of some supporters. However, when quizzed on that belief on Friday, Howe was quick to distance himself from such a lofty comparison.
"To hear that is incredibly pleasing and a proud thing to hear," the Newcastle boss told the media. "I'm never going to say I'm like Sir Bobby in any way. Thats not for me to say.
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"He did incredible things for this football club and I've just started. I'm a long way off ever achieving what he did but I try to do the job to the best of my ability."
This Saturday would have been Robson's 90th birthday and fans have been paying tribute to the former England manager in recent days. Wor Flags are also planning a special tribute to the Newcastle legend before the clash with Liverpool at St James' Park.
"It's a really fitting tribute to an incredible man," Howe added. "I consider myself unfortunate not to have met him and spent time with him, but I've heard a lot of stories about him from people here at the training ground, people connected to the club.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the tribute and embracing that, and paying tribute to a remarkable person."
Our 48-page Carabao Cup final special is available now! Click HERE to get your copy as Newcastle United prepare for a historic day out at Wembley. Also available to purchase through local participating retailers .
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