The mistake Bruce cannot afford to make this weekend

It is a tough ask for Steve Bruce, but his tactics need to be perfect this weekend.

Newcastle United are through to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup after defeating Newport County (barely) yesterday, and now the team’s attention has turned toward Burnley. This weekend’s clash may not seem special on paper, but it is of major importance for the Magpies.

Newcastle United have experienced every possible outcome in their first three games, but the club’s latest performances in the Premier League have been underwhelming. Steve Bruce’s tactics have taken a big hit from the Toon Army as they want to see fluid, attacking football now that new talent has arrived.

Saturday’s opponent, Burnley, are one of three teams in the top flight that are yet to register a point. Motivation and urgency surely will not be lacking in their camp, but that urgency needs to be matched by Newcastle United.

Three points should be the only objective as Bruce prepares the squad for this weekend as points will be difficult to come by for the next couple of weeks.

After Saturday’s game, Newcastle United will go up against Manchester United (H), Wolverhampton (A), and Everton (H), Southampton (A), and Chelsea (H).

The statement “there is no such thing as an easy game in the Premier League” has never been truer when looking at that list of fixtures.

The Magpies need to increase their point tally to seven this weekend to stay ahead of the relegation battle, as well as build up some confidence before going head to head with some of the league’s top dogs.

Newcastle United have already gotten lucky by stealing a point against Tottenham, but facing top teams consecutively and developing consistency in the process will not be an easy task.

Whatever angle Saturday’s game is looked at, the overall message is clear for Bruce: Newcastle United need to dictate the flow of the game and claim all three points at St. James’ Park.