This starting lineup would be the worst Rafa Benitez has ever put together for Newcastle United.
Every matchday for Newcastle United, somebody on Twitter hates the lineup Rafa Benitez put together. While the formation always remains the same, he’s had a few head-scratchers over the first half of this Premier League season. But as we all heard growing up, things could always be worse. Today, I did my best to put together the worst starting XI possible. Whenever you don’t like Rafa’s team sheet, revisit this story to remember, it could be worse.
Let’s start from the top. Obviously, Joselu is the striker in this scenario. The summer signing has lacked finishing since he arrived Tyneside. He has three goals this season and should have about 10. Behind him, in the other forward position, is Mohamed Diame. A natural midfielder, Diame has struggled mightily in the supporting striker role over his two seasons with Newcastle United. Thankfully for Joselu, Diame’s service wouldn’t give him many sitters to miss. Ayoze Perez was a close second at this spot due to his poor form in 2017.
Henri Saivet and Jack Colback would occupy the midfield positions. Saivet was on loan last season but was accused of not loving the game by his manager. He has only appeared in an EFL Cup loss this year. Colback in the starting lineup made everyone in Toon Army cringe last season. He reportedly got in a dustup with Rafa on the training ground and has been stuck training with the reserves by all accounts since.
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The wing is a tough call. I’d put Rolando Aarons at one spot because of his injury history. With very few wing options, let’s just throw anyone in there.
The defense would be anchored by Chancel Mbemba, a Rafa outcast last season, and Ciaran Clark at center-back. Clark was great last season, but he has not replicated that form this year. At fullback, Jesus Gamez and Massadio Haidara will get the call. Gamez barely saw time last season and hasn’t factored in yet this year either. Only diehard fans will remember that Haidara is still on the squad.
In goal, recalling Matz Sels from his loan seems like the best bet after his horrendous showing last campaign. But, I’ll go with Karl Darlow. He’s allowed nine goals and is always good for the occasional howler.
Now, let’s just hope we never see this lineup in real life. If we do, chances are Newcastle United will not be victorious.