The telling Marc Guehi remark from Eddie Howe that hints Newcastle United still like £70m star

Eddie Howe has spoken of his "respect" for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi as Newcastle United face up to the man they tried to sign in the summer.

Talk of a bid as big as £70million in total was turned down by the Eagles with Steve Parish saying he never reached the point where he was tempted to part with the ex-Chelsea player. Since the move broke down, Guehi has had to get on with life in a Palace shirt for a team that are currently slumped in 19th place.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle return with renewed interest in the January window but with Sven Botman close to a comeback from a knee injury, the centre-back area is not the priority it once was for Howe. When asked his thoughts about squaring up to a player that his own scouting team analysed meticulously Howe's admiration for the England international was clear.

READ MORE: Eddie Howe drops Newcastle United team news hint as star set for under-21 appearance

READ MORE: Eddie Howe toying with £95million selection call that will excite Newcastle United fans

Howe told Chronicle Live: "I'd like to think we know about everyone. That is regardless of the player and opponent.

"It is very difficult to comment too deeply (on Guehi). Marc is somebody we respect. He is a very good player."

Newcastle go into the game against Palace still reeling from the defeat against West Ham when Tomas Soucek was allowed to roam free and head home on Monday night to set the tone. Guehi has netted twice for Palace this season including a goal from a corner three weeks ago in the 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Despite Palace's problems and precarious position Howe has respect for Oliver Glasner's Eagles and said: "I don't think it [their table position] is a reflection of the strength that they have and how they play. Certainly Selhurst Park is always a difficult place to go to.

"I look back to their win against Tottenham, I thought they played really well and I think their recent results have seen an upturn in performances and results. I think they have been more competitive in the last few games."

Newcastle themselves sit in 10th place in the Premier League but Howe knows that putting any type of run together can change the entire complexion of the season so far. He added: "We have to be positive in every respect. The league is still so tight and consecutive wins can elevate you. Our last away performance was very strong and I see no reason we can't deliver that again."