MY ACCOUNT
Newcastle’s sieve-like defence has been at the root of their struggles this season.
The Magpies picked up their first win of the campaign at the 15th time of asking last time out, beating Burnley 1-0.
Now manager Eddie Howe will want to see some sustained solidity from his side.
So, ahead of this afternoon’s trip to Leicester, we take a look at how the former Bournemouth boss can bring some resilience to his rearguard.
Signs of improvement already?
Newcastle’s clean sheet in that victory over Burnley was only their second of the season in all competitions.
Both of them have come against Sean Dyche’s side, who they also met in the second round of the Carabao Cup.
Of course, one shutout does not mean the team’s defensive woes have been solved, but it is worth noting that the Magpies restricted Burnley to a single shot on target.
The Clarets are undoubtedly one of the least creative teams in the league. However, Newcastle have statistically been among the division’s worst defences — having conceded 30 goals — so there is certainly some encouragement to be taken.
Joy for Joelinton
It is not hard to see why Joelinton has been labelled a flop, given his £40million price tag and Premier League goals return of seven in two-and-a-half seasons.
But Howe might have just played a masterstroke by deploying the striker in an unlikely No8 role, as he looks to make Newcastle harder to penetrate.
The Brazilian bossed the midfield as the 10-man Magpies drew 1-1 with Norwich on Matchday 14 and his manager was full of praise for his performance.
He said: “Joelinton’s given everything for the team. He’s got a real selfless mindset and I think he can continue to improve. He’s going to be a huge player for us.
“We really, really like him. I think he’s got a good mix of physicality, technical ability and tactical intelligence.”
Three or four?
While in charge of Bournemouth, Howe was known for playing a 4-4-2 system — and he has done just that with Newcastle.
But the 44-year-old has shown that he is not afraid to mix things up, also opting for a 3-4-3 in his short time at St. James’ Park.
Whether he is still deciding upon the best approach or will continue to adapt according to the situation, that tactical flexibility could prove invaluable to the Magpies’ survival hopes.
Sven the saviour?
The January transfer window will be the first since Newcastle’s mega-money takeover.
While they may not spend like crazy just yet, the club are bound to bring in reinforcements.
Reportedly high on their list of targets is Lille centre-back Sven Botman, 21, who would go a long way towards shoring up their porous backline.
The Magpies have been strongly linked with a move for the towering Dutch prospect, who won the Ligue 1 title with Les Dogues last season and this week helped them qualify for the Champions League last 16.
Apply some pressure
If there is one thing you can expect from Howe’s teams, it is aggression — something Newcastle were suffering from a distinct lack of under Steve Bruce.
The Magpies have allowed a league-high 17 passes per defensive action in 2021-22, which points to a low level of pressing.
And with talent like Allan Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson at their disposal, perhaps there is a case to be made for attacking being the best form of defence for this Newcastle side.
