Newcastle United got the job done against Everton yesterday, but fans will hope that Steve Bruce made note of a few things.
Two goals from £20m summer signing Callum Wilson, who now has six goals to his name in seven games, delivered three points to Newcastle United against Everton.
After taking a point from an in-form Wolverhampton side on the road last week, Newcastle United will be full of confidence after defeating Everton ahead of Friday’s clash with Southampton.
That being said, though, Bruce needs to make a few changes. His cookie cutter approach to games will not work. Here are three key lessons that Bruce should take away from yesterday’s win.
Drop Hendrick
The summer signing from Burnley put in a decent shift compared to some other games, but he did little to provide any creativity in the middle, and he rushed several passes.
Jeff Hendrick needs to make way for Isaac Hayden next week as he does a better job linking up with those ahead of him.
The Fraser Impact
Aside from Miguel Almiron, Ryan Fraser had the greatest impact in midfield, and he was only on the pitch for 16 minutes. His movement off the ball opened new avenues for others in the final third, and he bagged a brilliant assist to seal the deal for the Toon.
Fraser’s composure on the ball, his movement off the ball, and his quick feet should make him a starter every week. Immediate impact for #NUFC since coming on.
— Newcastle Toons (@NewcastleToons) November 1, 2020
What more does he need to do to start for Newcastle United on a regular basis? In my eyes, nothing. Fraser has proven that he is fit and fully capable of serving as a playmaker on this team.
Saint-Maximin’s Role
Newcastle United opened up and attacked more in the second half because Allan Saint-Maximin moved back out to the wing. In the number ten role during the first half, the dynamic Frenchman struggled to have an impact when surrounded by multiple defenders.
Saint-Maximin thrives out wide where he can develop a rhythm and take on defenders in one-on-one situations. Bruce needs to play him in his natural position to keep Southampton on alert. We all know well that worked out for the Magpies at St. Mary’s Stadium last season.