Pressure has increased on Howe after Newcastle lost nine of their last 12 Premier League matches, leaving the club down in 14th place and struggling to stay in the race for European qualification ahead of Saturday's clash with Brighton at St James' Park.

Despite the difficult run, Howe said he remains fully committed to the project at Newcastle and is focused only on improving performances.

"I've never needed clarity in my head," Howe said. "I'm here, I'm working and I'm committed. A football club has to do what a football club has to do.

"The proof is always in how the team performs. I know results have to improve and I'm under no illusions about that."

Howe also rejected any suggestion that his motivation had dropped during the club's difficult period.

"I don't need reinvigorating. I'm invigorated," he explained. "My motivation levels are really high.

"You learn a lot from moments like this. Difficult runs force you to re-evaluate things and improve. Sometimes the hardest moments help you improve the most."

The Newcastle manager admitted he still expects to remain in charge next season, although he understands results will ultimately decide his future.

"I have to retain that confidence," he said. "It doesn't help anybody if you don't have that long-term vision. But we need to win games."

Howe also welcomed the return of Brazilian midfielder Joelinton, describing him as one of the team's most important players.

"Joey is a massive part of what we do," Howe said. "He has that determination to win every loose ball and he sets standards for the group. When he's not playing, we miss his unique qualities."

The Newcastle boss also praised young forward Nick Woltemade after his recent improvement in training.

"We are working with him on things we didn't have the opportunity to earlier in the season," Howe explained. "His pass for Yoane was sublime and it was great to see them link together. It's a partnership we can use in the future."

Howe believes supporters will also soon see the best of striker Yoane Wissa after an injury-disrupted spell since arriving at the club.

"Since he returned to full training, we've seen an elevation in his performances," Howe said. "If he continues on this path, we'll see the best of him."

There was also positive news on Anthony Gordon, who returned to partial training this week ahead of the Brighton match.

"He's a player of huge quality and one we've missed," Howe added. "We'll assess him closer to the game and see how he gets through training."

Nedbank Cup Round of 32 draw