As the one-year anniversary of Eddie Howe's Newcastle United reign edges ever closer, some of those in the media who were so quick to write him off upon arrival on Tyneside are now eating a healthy dose of humble pie.
Of course, there were some reservations when he took the job. It was inevitable when the likes of Unai Emery, Rafa Benitez, Lucien Favre and Paulo Fonseca were being touted to replace Steve Bruce. There were also concerns over how far Howe could take the club and their new-found riches, as well as his defensive record at Bournemouth.
However, Newcastle fans were optimistic about the former Cherries coach, even as the naysayers flocked to the airwaves to voice their concern. A host of ex-players, managers, pundits and radio hosts offered their opinion - and are subsequently eating their words with the Magpies now in the top four.
