Waugh: Howe was afforded an extension under Dan Ashworth during the summer of 2022 and, in secret, he was given another deal the following off-season. That was only revealed in July last year by Eales when he was asked directly by The Athletic during a video call with reporters.

Newcastle United lacks attacking options for the start of the season as wantaway striker Alexander Isak remains unavailable but there is still time to add the right players before the transfer window closes on September 1,

Eddie Howe has said there has been "no change" on Alexander Isak's situation at the club with the striker unlikely to be in the squad for Newcastle's Premier League opener.