Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has confirmed he spoke to Joe Willock after a bizarre viral story claimed the Magpies midfielder had been rescued from York Maze. The fake news — which started on social media before being repeated on BBC Radio One — became one of the strangest tales of the international break, prompting Howe to personally verify the truth with his player.

Newcastle star Joelinton has pledged to supply the chances to make new signing Nick Woltemade a goal-scoring success for the Magpies. Toon boss Eddie Howe has endured an erratic season so far, but can move onto the top half of the table with victory over Brighton and his Brazil star is confident Woltemade will help fire them up the table.

Liverpool striker Alexander Isak has admitted he hasn't spoken to former boss Eddie Howe following his Newcastle exit. Isak left the Magpies for the Premier League champions as a long-running summer saga drew to a close on deadline day. The Swede, though, doesn't want to dwell on the past as he looks to move on from the controversy surrounding his big money move to Anfield.

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has broken ranks with his fellow club legends by naming Eddie Howe as the man he wants to see replace under-pressure manager Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford. Despite Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s backing for the Portuguese coach, speculation over Amorim’s future continues to swirl — and Scholes is convinced that Howe is “definitely” the right fit.

Toon boss Howe has delivered a simple rebuke to rumours linking him with the Manchester United job, confirming his commitment to the Magpies. Amorim’s job is seemingly hanging in the balance with Man Utd languishing in 14th place after a woeful start to the season, one point and one place above Newcastle. But Howe has moved quickly to squash any potential link.