Eddie Howe highlights defensive concerns ahead of Bayer Leverkusen clash

Newcastle United have arrived in Germany for a decisive Champions League meeting with Bayer Leverkusen, and Eddie Howe’s preparations have been complicated by fresh concerns in defence. With the club also facing a high-stakes derby against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, the manager’s selection choices are under sharper scrutiny than usual — even as he insists his focus lies solely on tomorrow’s match.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the game, Howe stressed that the significance of facing Sunderland will not distort his plans for Europe. But his comments still hinted at the difficult balance he is attempting to manage during a period where squad depth, particularly at the back, is stretched thin.

The stakes could hardly be higher. A positive result in Leverkusen would keep Newcastle in contention for automatic qualification from their Champions League group, a position that looked far from guaranteed earlier in the season. It also sets the tone for Sunday’s derby — a match that carries emotional weight regardless of league context.

Howe was clear that he does not intend to prioritise one match over the other, yet the realities of squad rotation may force his hand. With several positions up for debate in midfield and attack, the manager may find himself making compromises, even if he prefers not to acknowledge them publicly.

Having followed Howe’s tenure closely, the pattern is familiar. He rarely deviates from a strong team in major European games, but he also values rhythm ahead of derbies. The tactical puzzle is not just about who starts, but who is protected — and who must be risked.

The shortage of defenders is the obvious issue, but there are choices elsewhere. Howe must decide how much physical load players like Anthony Gordon, Bruno Guimarães and Alexander Isak can handle in a three-match stretch. There is also the question of whether to keep the press aggressive against Leverkusen or to adjust slightly to preserve energy for Sunday.

Although Howe dismissed the idea of the derby influencing his thinking, it’s difficult to imagine it won’t play at least a small role in shaping his decisions. The balancing act between European ambition and local rivalry rarely comes easy, even for managers with deeper squads.

The absence of senior full-backs changes Newcastle’s structure considerably. Trippier’s delivery and leadership, Botman’s composure, and Krafth’s versatility all give Howe different shapes to work with when building out from the back. Without them, Newcastle lean more heavily on improvised solutions — something Leverkusen’s high-tempo, transitional approach can expose.

This is why Howe’s caution makes sense. He cannot afford another injury, particularly in central defence, where continuity is already limited. Managing risk over the next four days may prove every bit as important as tactical execution.

Newcastle take on Bayer Leverkusen tomorrow night before travelling to Sunderland for Sunday’s derby. Howe’s selection choices will be closely watched, and the outcomes of both matches could set the tone for a crucial stretch heading into the winter period.

👉 Newcastle fans — would you rather Howe gamble in Europe or arrive at the derby with fresher legs?