Key things we learned about Newcastle United this season
By Durim Halimi
Thank you… Saint-Maximin, Shelvey, and Dubravka
If it were not for the stellar performances of Allan Saint-Maximin, Jonjo Shelvey, and Martin Dubravka, Newcastle United would have been relegated this season. Saint-Maximin provided an offensive spark for the Magpies every time the ball came his way.
It has been years since the Toon Army witnessed a player who willingly and successfully took on defenders, created chances for himself, and found the back of the net every now and then. His three goals and four assists came at the perfect time to help Newcastle United steer clear of the bottom three. If he can stay fit, Graeme Souness’ recent assessment of the Frenchman will be correct.
Jonjo Shelvey experienced an impressive resurgence in the middle of the park. The confidence Bruce expressed in the mercurial midfielder worked wonders as Shelvey went on to lead the team in scoring with six meaningful goals. Fans should be excited to see him pick up where he left off next season. Also joining the praise party is Martin Dubravka.
The Slovakian shot stopper was rightfully announced as the club’s Player of the Year. Dubravka was the busiest keeper in the top flight, but his athleticism and quick reactions saw him save the most shots this season, and he shut out the opposition on 11 occasions. The Magpies are lucky to have him between the sticks.
Worst Defensive Record Since 2015
In 2017 and 2018, Newcastle United were recognized as one of the best defensive teams outside the top six. This season, the Magpies conceded the seventh-most goals, 58. Opponents managed to score three or more goals against Newcastle United nine times this season and that is unacceptable.
Bruce experimented his defensive shape a few times against the wrong opponents and it only hurt the team’s confidence. Jamaal Lascelles, Federico Fernandez, and Javier Manquillo are the only three defenders worth praising this season. The rest of the bunch were nothing more than mediocre. Actually, Fabian Schar’s defending in the second half of the season was atrocious.
Conceding goals against top teams is expected, but being thrashed due to minimal effort is not okay. Newcastle United also conceded too many goals to teams in the bottom half. A lot more discipline will be expected and required if this squad aims to fight for a top half finish next term.