EDDIE HOWE has adopted the role of the Grinch at Newcastle United - by banning his players from having a Christmas party.

Parties have been in the news this week, with last year's alleged gathering at Ten Downing Street dominating the political agenda.

This year, Christmas get-togethers are permissable under the current Covid regulations, but given the rising Covid case numbers and Newcastle's position in the relegation zone, Howe does not feel it would be wise for his squad to organise a party in the run-up to Christmas.

The Magpies head coach said: "I don’t think this moment is the time for the players to be having a Christmas party. We have had a gathering this week of staff and players, a meal together.

"But I don’t think with one, the fixture congestion, two, Covid and three, our league position, it is the time for that (players’ party).

"I will be trying to get the message to them to focus on the work and the games. That takes priority over anything else."