Eddie Howe convinced Saudi backers still committed to Newcastle after cutting LIV Golf funding

“The desire is unchanged, to try and get to the top of the Premier League, to try and win as many trophies consistently as possible that I don’t think while PIF are, our owners, or part owners, majority owners that will change. They are very ambitious for the football club."

Howe described the meetings as consistently productive, highlighting the owners’ deep care for the club and their long-term strategic planning.

"It’s always constructive because they clearly care so much about the football club, the long-term planning that’s clearly going on, on a number of levels,” Howe said.

“It’s very exciting times ahead for the club, regardless of what happens short-term. The long-term vision is clearly there."

While Howe has previously guided the club to the Champions League and ended a 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy during his tenure, he conceded that this season’s league form has been below par. This was reflected in the intensity of Thursday’s discussions.

"They were challenging conversations, challenging questions, but that’s all part of it," he explained.

Joelinton is available this weekend after serving a suspension (Reuters)

"Those meetings, I’ve had that every year regardless of our league position where you’ll be challenged and probed on certain decisions that you’ve made, how we’ve ended up in certain scenarios, and then you explain the process behind it. This year, of course, slightly more difficult questions because of our league position, there’s no getting away from that."

Howe’s own future has been a subject of intense speculation following a run of nine defeats in 12 Premier League games, leaving Newcastle in 14th place, eight points shy of European qualification but equally distant from the relegation zone.

As the Magpies prepare to face Brighton at St James’ Park on Saturday, Howe remains focused on steering the club forward.

"I have to retain that confidence. I don’t think that serves anybody not to have that long-term vision. But we need to win games."

Midfielder Joelinton is available after serving a two-match ban, while Anthony Gordon could return from a hip flexor injury.