Eddie Howe acknowledged his accountability after Newcastle United suffered another late collapse, losing 2-1 to Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Newcastle appeared poised for victory after taking an early lead, but conceded two goals in the final stages at Selhurst Park. The defeat leaves the Magpies in 14th place and intensifies scrutiny on Howe's future.
"I understand there's anger and frustration," Howe said in his post-match comments. "I'm not blind to anything. I always have to look at myself first. I'm number one accountable."
The loss was particularly disappointing given Newcastle had benefited from a three-week break between matches—a rare opportunity for Howe to work with his squad on the training ground. During previous seasons, such intensive periods have been credited with transforming players and delivering success, including last year's League Cup triumph and Champions League qualification.
However, this extended break failed to produce the desired response. Crystal Palace, who had played in Europe just three days earlier and rested several key players, still managed to overturn the deficit through Jean-Philippe Mateta's match-winning cameo.
Former England goalkeeper Ben Foster had predicted "weird and wonderful" results this weekend due to teams' contrasting schedules, noting that some squads struggle with extended breaks.
For Newcastle, the pattern of surrendering leads has become all too familiar this season. As players and staff trudged over to applaud their traveling supporters at full-time, the sense of missed opportunity was palpable.
With European qualification now looking increasingly unlikely, Howe faces mounting pressure to reverse his team's fortunes in the remaining fixtures.