The stats don’t lie, unfortunately Newcastle United are in real danger. Having only notched 4 goals in the Premier League this season and averaging 37.7% possession, the alarm bells should be ringing louder than ever in Steve Bruce’s ears. The Newcastle manager can point to the amount of injuries he has had to deal with since taking charge. However, Newcastle have been lacklustre and have looked devoid of ideas at times.’
Last season under Rafael Benitez, not only did Newcastle look strong defensively, there was always a game plan. Under Bruce and especially last weekend against Brighton, there was simply no plan at all. The players looked confused and some were confused about their positioning. Realistically Newcastle should count themselves very lucky that they got anything from the game.
When Bruce was appointed it was obvious he would have a massive fight on his hands, in order to get the supporters on side. Instead, attendances at St. James’ Park have decreased and the crowd haven’t seen anything to get them off their seats.
Walking out of the stadium on Saturday evening felt like a defeat. Similar to Watford, Brighton were there for the taking. There was no urgency and no willingness to take the game by the scruff of the neck.’
With Allan Saint-Maximin pushing for a starting place, Miguel Almiron’s position in the side is very much under threat. The former Atlanta United man has struggled so far this season, perhaps taking Almiron out of the firing line could do the Paraguayan the world of good.
Bruce needs to turn this around quickly. The supporters are starting to vote with their feet, Newcastle cannot afford another relegation, right now that’s exactly where they’re heading.’
Newcastle face Leicester City away, Manchester United at home and Chelsea away in their next three games. It’s hard to see where the next win is coming from, the games against Watford and Brighton were vital, Bruce failed to deliver and he is beginning to see the consequences of that.
