Newcastle United have benefited from the consistent play of their primary defenders and this stability will keep the Magpies in the top flight.
The defensive trio of Jamaal Lascelles, Paul Dummett, and DeAndre Yedlin have played extremely well for Newcastle United in the last three months. The Magpies defense has been inconsistent for most of the season, but their form has steered in the right direction.
With eight matches remaining in the 2017/18 campaign, the positive form of the aforementioned defenders is greatly contributing to Newcastle’s overall success. From clean sheets to unmatched aggression, Newcastle’s defensive unit has excelled in frustrating opposing strikers.
In addition, Lascelles and his supporting cast have enabled Rafa Benitez to transform his tactical preparation in recent matches. The defensive stability that Newcastle have enjoyed since January has made Benitez place more emphasis on attacking opponents.
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Defensive Trio: Yedlin-Lascelles-Dummett
The Magpies have only conceded 10 goals since December 30th and this solidity in the back has opened the door for more offense. In recent weeks, Newcastle have altered their style of play by pushing more players forward and spreading the field to attack frequently.
Jamaal Lascelles’ ability to win 168 duels and recover the ball 124 times has helped Newcastle mitigate threats and improve their possession in matches. Paul Dummett’s dedication to serving as an obstruction for crosses and breakaways on the wing has been crucial for the Magpies.
His ability to quickly intercept passes and find Jonjo Shelvey or Kenedy in the midfield enables fewer midfielders to drop back in defense. DeAndre Yedlin has also been a dual threat all season. The American international has utilized his speed to close in on strikers and orchestrate effective counter-attacks down the wing in every match.
Offensive Efficiency
As a result of Newcastle’s stable defense, it is not surprising that Benitez’s men have enjoyed more freedom on offense. There is also a statistical correlation regarding defensive stability translating to offensive success.
Since the end of December, Newcastle United have earned four of their seven clean sheets this season. The improved defensive form has also led to Newcastle scoring 14 of their 30 goals in the same time period.
If Newcastle can maintain this rhythm of collaboration on both ends of the pitch they will comfortably avoid relegation. For now, however, the Magpies must focus on taking three points from Huddersfield Town on Saturday to climb closer to a top ten finish.