Manager Eddie Howe surprisingly claims Newcastle United ‘lacked a bit of luck’ after scraping a 0-0 draw under siege at San Siro from Milan attacks.
It was the first Champions League game for the Magpies in 20 years, but also Howe’s first ever in the competition, both as a coach and even as a spectator.
He chose quite the venue to break that duck, a packed out San Siro, though his team managed to hold on under siege for a goalless draw.
“We did not aim to defend deep. Our defending was a bit loose, but around the game we defended the 18-yard box perfectly. We know we can grow and improve. We can be very positive about the next game,” said Howe in his press conference.
Milan dominated possession and had 25 attempts on goal to six, with eight on target to one, yet Howe still feels it was Newcastle who could’ve had more.
“We’re not disappointed with the result. Perhaps we lacked a bit of luck. To move forward in this tournament we will have to do better, but let’s not focus on the negatives. We will improve and we will see a different Newcastle in our next game.”
This is certainly a huge point for the Magpies, because Milan would’ve seen this as their easiest fixture of the whole group on paper, with Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund to come.
“We have to aim to qualify. I don’t know how many points will be needed but the away points are certainly precious,” added Howe.
There were great scenes when Tonali returned to San Siro and was given a standing ovation at his substitution by the Milan fans.
“Sandro did a good job, it was a very emotional match for him. He did well in the first half and it helped us a lot.”