Newcastle’s Defensive Weakness: A Deep Dive
Newcastle United’s struggle on the right-hand side of their defense has become a pressing issue that needs immediate attention. The once strong attacking outlet has now turned into a liability, causing disruptions in the team’s overall performance.
Shoehorning Players: A Failing Strategy
The team’s attempt to accommodate players in positions where they are not most effective has reached a breaking point. Anthony Gordon, initially brought in as a right-winger, failed to deliver before being shifted to a central role due to Isak’s injury. Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes also failed to make an impact on the right side, with Barnes appearing to struggle to find his place in the team.
It is evident that Gordon excels when playing on the left, yet the management continues to experiment with his position, resulting in a lack of consistency and performance. The decision to invest heavily in Barnes for a similar position raises questions about the club’s recruitment strategy and squad building process.
Defensive Limitations and Tactical Challenges
Joelinton’s lack of technical quality and tactical understanding as a right-winger further exacerbates Newcastle’s defensive weaknesses. Livramento, despite his defensive abilities, struggles to make an impact due to tactical instructions that do not suit his style of play. The team’s right-side midfield three also lacks consistency, with players like Sandro Tonali and Sean Longstaff failing to provide the necessary stability.
The absence of Miguel Almiron and Trippier from the team further highlights the need for a strategic overhaul to address the deficiencies in the right-hand side of the defense. With the January transfer window fast approaching, Newcastle must find in-house solutions to improve their defensive structure and attacking output.
Looking Ahead: Finding Solutions
In conclusion, Newcastle United’s defensive weakness on the right-hand side demands immediate action to avoid further setbacks. A new right-winger, along with strategic adjustments and improved performance from existing players, is essential to address the team’s pressing defensive issues. As the team navigates through the challenges, finding effective solutions will be crucial in shaping their future success on the field.
