Eddie Howe wants Newcastle to entertain but says 'no magic wand' can guarantee survival

Howe said talk of a January spending spree is way down his current agenda as he prepares for his Newcastle United bow at home to Brentford on Saturday

Eddie Howe warned he has no “magic wand” in his first press conference as Newcastle boss (Owen Humphreys/PA)

Eddie Howe started his reign as Newcastle manager by promising a new era of “brave” and expansive football – but warned he has no “magic wand” that will lift the club out of their increasingly desperate relegation fight.

Speaking for the first time since replacing Steve Bruce at St James’ Park, the 43-year-old said talk of a January spending spree is way down his current agenda as he prepares for his Magpies bow at home to Brentford on Saturday.