EDDIE HOWE admits he was left frustrated after his Newcastle United side signed off for 2022 with a goalless draw against Leeds United.

The Magpies dominated possession for long spells at a sodden St James’ Park, but were unable to break down a resolute Leeds defence.

Fabian Schar failed to convert a couple of chances from set-pieces, and Sean Longstaff blazed over the crossbar in the second half, with Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier also making a couple of important saves.

Newcastle remain in third position ahead of Tuesday night’s trip to league leaders Arsenal, but Howe was nevertheless left disappointed as his side’s six-game winning run came to an end.

He said: “Was it frustrating? Yes, very much so. I thought all that was missing was the finish today. We created a number of opportunities, but it wasn't to be.

“We spoke in the dressing room afterwards, and I think there was a feeling of frustration and disappointment, but only healthy emotions.

“You don’t want players to be sitting there with smiles on their faces. Our expectation is to win, as I’ve said many times, and when we don’t, we’re disappointed.

“But the commitment and effort were there. We defended our goals very well, and I thought we attacked with numbers, it was just that final finish missing.”

Today’s game was the first time Newcastle had failed to score in a home game in the league since early September, but the fact there was so much disappointment at the final whistle nevertheless underlines just how far they have come during 2022.

Howe said: “It's important the players keep that perspective because there's absolutely no need for any negativity internally from me to the players, from the players to each other.

“They've given everything today tough conditions, tough opponent. We've created the chances and sometimes football works that way you just can't for whatever reason.

“When you're free-flowing – and we have been previously – suddenly one week you look like you can't score. The most important thing is we didn't lose the game in trying to chase it and trying to win it and the players' commitment was there for everyone to see.”