EDDIE HOWE remains convinced Newcastle United can bridge the gap currently separating them from Premier League title challengers Manchester City and Liverpool.

However, the Magpies head coach is also adamant a process of “evolution not revolution” is required as the club look to utilise their new-found wealth in order to enable them to compete for silverware in the future.

The size of the gulf between Newcastle and the top two has been highlighted in the last two matches, with the Magpies going down 1-0 at home to Liverpool before finishing on the wrong end of a 5-0 goal thrashing to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Howe accepts his current team is nowhere near good enough to match two of the best sides in European football, but while there will be changes this summer, with Newcastle understood to have a transfer budget of more than £100m, there will not be a complete overhaul of the current squad.

Howe said: “There’s a huge gap between us and Liverpool and Manchester City, but I’d say there’s the same gap between most of the clubs in the Premier League.

“Now, we have to try to close that gap through the seasons. That, I think, requires evolution not revolution because you’ve got to be very careful that you don’t change too much, too quickly.

“We’re looking to improve every day. We’re looking to improve in every transfer window, but I think it’s got to be small gradual steps.

“There’s no magic wand and no quick fix. I think it’s hard work, and obviously smart moves in trying to improve the team.”