EDDIE Howe was reluctant to put "unhealthy" pressure on the Newcastle United players who were handed an opportunity against Tottenham, but says those coming into the side will have known there was a "real necessity" to perform.

Howe made eight changes to his side for the Carabao Cup fourth round tie against Spurs and his selection paid off as Newcastle's second string won 2-0 to set up a quarter final clash at home to Fulham.

Fabian Schar, one of the players coming into the side, headed Newcastle ahead in the first half before Joe Willock, making just his second start of the season, crossed for Nick Woltemade to double the lead shortly after the interval. Deputy goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale also impressed, making a string of excellent saves.

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Howe knew the fringe figures he selected would be desperate to take their opportunity.

“There was no great message from me to the group in that respect because I think that pressure from me is sometimes unhealthy," he said.

“I think they would have known, though, on a subconscious level, that there...