Eddie Howe has stated that he was not approached by the Football Association regarding the England manager position, suggesting that he would have turned down any such offer to continue his work at Newcastle United. Following the appointment of Thomas Tuchel as Gareth Southgate's successor, the FA disclosed that it had spoken to ten potential candidates for the role. Howe, often viewed as a leading English contender, raised eyebrows with his omission from the discussions. It appears that the FA may have been deterred not only by the £6 million release clause in Howe's contract but also by his desire to remain at St James' Park. Howe referred to the speculation surrounding the England job as a "distraction" but expressed his happiness for Tuchel, whom he described as "one of the best" in the field.