NUFC boss: players have got to earn the right to play

Written by on 2nd October 2024

NUFC manager Eddie Howe speaks to the Press. Photo: Joris Verwijst/Orange Pics BV/Alamy Live News

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe says his under-performing star players may face the bench if they continue failing to play to their potential.

Howe faces some difficult decisions after a shaky start to the Premier League season, and key players – such as Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Anthony Gordon and the injured Alexander Isak – turning in some unsatisfying performances so far.

The Newcastle manager says his players need to find their best form, because they are playing at a big club, where under-performing means they will find themselves on the bench.

He said: “I’m a big believer in rewarding people that are playing well. I’m a big believer in no set team – everyone has to earn their place.

“If you are not earning your place, you can’t play.”

After defeat at Craven Cottage, Howe hoped his team would respond for their game against PL champions Manchester City, with the Magpies still unbeaten at home this season – and they duly responded, with an honourable 1-1 draw in front of their home fans.

Star striker Alexander Isak was missing due to a broken toe, but was expected back in training after missing three games. Matt Targett has also been out for the last few weeks with eczema.

Last season, Newcastle had scored 16 goals after their sixth game, while this season they’ve only scored eight, which shows how inefficient the Magpies have been in front of goal and how have they missed Isak.

However, this Newcastle team was also one place higher than last season, which shows that while performances may have seemed unimpressive, progress in the league is improved.


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