Newcastle: Eddie Howe wants to prevent a future ‘tragedy’ after a pitch invader confronted him

Eddie Howe is keen to work with the League Managers’ Association to help avert a potential tragedy following his shocking confrontation with a supporter.

The Newcastle boss revealed he has received messages of support from LMA chief Richard Bevan following the sickening incident where he was pushed and berated by a Leeds fan in the technical room during stoppage time of Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Elland Road .

A man has been charged with assault and banned for life from the Yorkshire club after leaving Howe visibly shaken.

The 45-year-old thanked Bevan for his support and is keen to work with authorities to strengthen security measures to prevent any kind of recurrence with potentially more serious consequences.

“I’ve had some nice messages from Richard Bevan at the LMA,” Howe said. “They are very good in all situations and in many different moments, so I am very grateful for that support.

Eddie Howe (left) is keen to avoid future tragedy after being confronted by a spectator during Newcastle’s draw against Leeds

“I’m totally fine and I’m thinking more about future episodes like that and trying to avoid them.”

“That incident is over as far as I’m concerned, but all I’m left with is the ‘what ifs’ for the future, that’s my concern. I would hate to see a tragedy on a football field that could have been avoided.

“I hope that this incident in itself can help the authorities and everyone concerned with the security and safety of players and staff. If it does make a small change or make someone think about how we can improve things, then it’s been a really valuable episode.”

Third-placed Newcastle can secure a Champions League place if they beat Brighton and Leicester at St James’s in the next five days.

Howe’s side have experienced a shaky run after taking a point from their last two games to give sixth-placed Liverpool hopes of catching them or Manchester United in the race for a top four finish.

Howe hopes something good can come out of the episode if it means more safety for coaches

The Reds are one point behind the Magpies having played a game more, with boss Jurgen Klopp insisting his side will try to keep the pressure up after seven wins in a row.

“I don’t feel like we’re being hunted,” Howe insisted. ‘I don’t feel that emotion, it’s actually us against ourselves, that’s how I see it. We try to be the best we can be.

“I haven’t focused on any other team all season. I knew that Liverpool was never far away because they are a top team and they are capable of winning streaks very similar to Manchester City where they can win a group of games without batting an eyelid.

“They have that experience and I think for us we can’t look at Liverpool and compare ourselves to them, we have to focus on ourselves.”

“When it’s such a big achievement and you want something badly, and I’m sure everyone connected to the club does, the hardest part is finally getting there.”