Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is basking in his successes and setting his sights high as he commemorates three years managing the Magpies.
Appointed on November 8, 2021, after Newcastle's Saudi-backed takeover, Howe has guided the team to Premier League stability and beyond, culminating in Champions League appearances and a domestic cup final appearance.
Yet, it's the future that really sparks Howe's enthusiasm. Addressing reporters, Howe said: "It feels good to still be here because when you come in you're never sure how things are going to go.
"You come in with the best intentions, lots of dreams and lots of emotions because, as you say, there's uncertainty and some insecurities because you're going into the unknown.
"Lots of challenges awaited us at that moment, first priority of course was to stay in the league, it was the only thing that consumed me in that moment.
"We got through a lot of work trying to make certain changes, but also try to get the best out of what was already here."
"When you look back at the three years as a whole, I think back to lots of positive memories, good feelings and I'm so pleased with how it's gone.
"I'm so thrilled to be sat in the position and still dreaming of what may lie ahead."
Howe's spell as Newcastle manager has been nothing short of remarkable, culminating in a sensational fourth-place Premier League finish and a return to Champions League triumphs for the first time since 2002-03.
Noteworthy among their European outings was an emphatic 4-1 win against Paris St Germain.
The team also had a cracking run in the Carabao Cup, making it all the way to the final in February 2023. Reflecting on his greatest moments with Newcastle, Howe shared: "I think staying in the league, the Champions League season was incredible.
"Even last year, we had some amazing moments and I think the challenge for us is continuing to bring those moments and those games that immediately spring to your mind that bring those emotions and those memories.
"Those are the ones that you're craving so hopefully there's more to come from us."
Beyond the antics on the pitch, Howe commented on his family's adaptation to life up north, revealing a humorous take on his children picking up the Geordie twang.
"Really happy at their schools, doing well, checking up on their grades and they're in a good place," he said before chuckling: "I'm really pleased with them, they seem happy and developing accents as well.
"I'm having to check the terminology of what certain words mean, but they're fully embracing it and loving it."
Howe's focus now returns to domestic proceedings as Newcastle gear up for a showdown with Nottingham Forest, who surprisingly find themselves third in the table, this coming Sunday.
The Newcastle manager has confirmed that there are no new injury worries for his team, but the match will be too early for Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson.
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