Analysis of Barnes, Gordon, Willock, and Big Joe under Eddie Howe’s Management
As Eddie Howe navigates the selection headaches on the left-hand side of the pitch with Joe Willock and Harvey Barnes now back in the fold, the dynamics of Newcastle United’s attacking options are set for an intriguing shift. Let’s delve deeper into how Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Joelinton, and Joe Willock are faring under Howe’s management.
Gordon vs Barnes: The Left-Wing Dilemma
The dilemma between Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes for the left-wing spot presents an interesting conundrum for Eddie Howe. While Gordon has been showing glimpses of his quality, including a crucial goal against Bournemouth, Barnes has also proven his worth with his ability to impact games off the bench. However, there are contrasting opinions on their effectiveness in maintaining consistent performances.
Gordon, England’s starting left-winger, has showcased his potential with key contributions in important matches. On the other hand, Barnes has faced criticism for going missing during games, a trend that has persisted from his time at Leicester. Despite Barnes’ knack for scoring spectacular goals, Gordon’s overall output in terms of goals and assists presents a strong case for his inclusion in the starting lineup.
The current dilemma would be resolved with the acquisition of a starting right-winger, allowing Gordon to slot into his preferred position without hesitation. Nevertheless, the potential front three of Gordon, Isak, and Barnes offers a tantalizing prospect for Newcastle, albeit with the risk of unsettling either player. Howe must carefully weigh his options to strike the right balance in the attacking setup.
Joelinton vs Willock: Midfield Conundrum
The midfield battle between Joelinton and Joe Willock adds another layer of complexity to Howe’s selection process. Joelinton’s resurgence in the opening game against Southampton was marred by subsequent struggles in maintaining his form, raising concerns about his consistency. Willock, on the other hand, has shown glimpses of his potential with impactful performances off the bench.
While Joelinton’s work rate and physical presence have been valuable for Newcastle, Willock’s creativity and flair on the ball have injected a different dimension into the team’s attacking play. The idea of fielding a midfield trio comprising Tonali, Bruno, and Willock offers an intriguing prospect, with the potential to unlock a more dynamic and unpredictable style of play.
The synergy between Willock and Joelinton on the left wing in past seasons has yielded positive results, as evidenced by their performance against Spurs in a resounding victory. However, with the emergence of Gordon and Barnes in the squad, the traditional roles of “Big Joe” and “Little Joe” on the wing may be subject to change, prompting Howe to reassess his tactical approach.
In conclusion, Eddie Howe faces a plethora of decisions regarding the optimal lineup for Newcastle United’s upcoming fixtures. The integration of Barnes, Gordon, Willock, and Joelinton into the team presents both challenges and opportunities, as Howe seeks to balance individual strengths with collective cohesion on the pitch. The anticipation surrounding Howe’s lineup choices reflects the high expectations and scrutiny that come with managing a top-flight club like Newcastle United.