Eddie Howe continued his refusal to discuss the possibility of playing in the Champions League - but admits that European qualification would lead to a change in approach.
A quick look at West Ham's campaign shows under pressure David Moyes' still fending off the threat of relegation in the Premier League with their Europa Conference League commitments proving a strain on resources. That proved to be the case for Newcastle a decade ago when their run to the Europa League, ended by Benfica in the last eight, coincided with a near brush against the drop with safety only assured on the penultimate day of the season.
When asked about West Ham's fortunes and any potential plans for Newcastle to avoid such issues next term, Howe said: "I think I will refer any questions on Europe to when we – or if we – are able to achieve that aim. But your question is relevant in terms of the struggles and the dynamic that changes with the extra competition."
