It’s been a frustrating few years for Newcastle Utd fans. Supporters are worried about Mike Ashley’s ownership of the club. Additionally, the team’s performances have been far from convincing. Rafa Bentiez worked his magic with a depleted squad last season, but couldn’t agree a new contact with the club.
Steve Bruce took over after Rafa’s tenure came to an end. Many Toon fans felt that this was the wrong appointment. Ashley picked Bruce up from Championship side Sheffield Wednesday. Despite that, the Magpies made a decent start to the season and picked up a handful of points from their opening fixtures. Can they maintain their performances and avoid relegation?
Newcastle have a tough couple of months coming up where picking up points may prove very difficult indeed. Their next match is against Liverpool and Newcastle are tipped to suffer a heavy defeat on the road. Their following match is against Brighton and this may be a chance for them to rebuild their confidence after an expected defeat to Liverpool but then they need travel to Leicester City and their following matches consist of Man Utd, Chelsea and Wolves. November can relieve some of the pressure with matches against West Ham, Bournemouth & Aston Villa but they have to entertain Man City at home for their last match of November. So, it may be a tough couple of months coming up but if Newcastle can pick up any points during this period it will be a bonus and they can then push on in November.
We’ve identified some of their key strengths and weaknesses. What’s more, we’ll weigh up their chances of staying in the Premier League.
Strengths
Make no mistake about it, when everyone is fit, the Magpies have a strong starting eleven. Miguel Almiron is among the best players in the squad. The Paraguayan looks dangerous every time he goes forward. He’ll score goals and create plenty of chances throughout the season. However, he’ll need support from the players around him.
Additionally, Joelinton looks like a promising prospect. The Brazilian joined Newcastle from Hoffenheim and has already hit the back of the net. The Magpies have a strong attack. If they can keep things tight at the back, we think they’ll pick up plenty of points this season.
Furthermore, players like Shelvey and Longstaff can make a huge contribution. When you sit back and analyze the team, Newcastle has some fantastic players. If Steve Bruce can get the most out of them, we think that Newcastle will do enough to survive.
Weaknesses
Newcastle’s biggest problem is their squad depth. If a key player like Almiron or Joelinton picks up an injury, does Steve Bruce have suitable replacements? The squad certainly looks thin in some areas and attack is one of them.
The club didn’t have a fantastic summer transfer window by any means. Mike Ashley did splash the cash on Joelinton, but he failed to bring in enough reinforcements elsewhere. The Magpies look frail at the back which could be a problem when they come up against stronger opposition.
Goals are another huge issue for Newcastle. They didn’t score many last season. They’ll need to turn those stats around if they want to remain in the Premier League. We’ve already mentioned the likes of Almiron and Joelinton, but do they have a backup plan? If Andy Carroll can get himself fit, it’ll be a huge boost for the team.
Predictions
Newcastle should be building on the successful foundations that Rafa Benitez built last season. A strong cup run would lift the mood around St. James’ Park, but we just can’t see that happening. We think the Magpies will do enough to stay in the division. However, we don’t think Steve Bruce will bring a trophy home anytime soon.