Mikel Arteta voices striker transfer frustration after January window
Mikel Arteta has relayed his frustrations at Arsenal not being able to recruit an attacking addition during the January transfer window.
Despite a recent defeat to Fulham, optimism remains high, with fans dreaming of another trip to Wembley.
The Magpies will host Arsenal in the second leg of their League Cup semi-final on Wednesday night with a 2-0 aggregate advantage from the first leg.
Howe, who took charge of Newcastle United in 2021, has always prioritised cup competitions.
Unlike some of his predecessors, he refuses to field weakened teams, showing his determination to end the club's long wait for domestic silverware.
Newcastle last lifted a major domestic trophy in 1955, and Howe is eager to change that.
The Magpies came close in February 2023, reaching the Carabao Cup final, only to suffer a painful defeat against Manchester United.
That experience has fuelled Howe's motivation, and he is determined to return to Wembley - this time with a winning outcome.
His commitment to success has strengthened belief among fans that this could be the year they finally end their trophy drought.
"It's what we're here for," Howe told reporters.
"I made it very clear when I came to Newcastle that it's what I wanted to achieve. I speak on behalf of the players and coaching staff in that respect.
"These games take on huge importance when you get towards the latter stages. The team knows they must maintain high performance levels to compete with any division rival.
"I think the willingness has been there from previous teams, but we want to be the team that can get over the line and achieve something special."