Newcastle United have their work cut out as they look to end their nine-game winless streak on Saturday when they take on Aston Villa. That task will be a major challenge for the Magpies as their opponents play with a “fear no foe” mentality.
Saturday’s game aside, Newcastle United have experienced an identity crisis ever since Steve Bruce took charge of the club. Inconsistency is a word that is often associated with the team as a result of their inability to win more than two consecutive games.
The only common streak under Bruce has been failing to win over a period of five or more games, which is something Newcastle United have experienced four times since July, 2019. The Bruce era has caused a ton of frustration among the Toon Army for a wide range of reasons.
Generally speaking, though, Bruce’s brand of football has generated two types of stress for Newcastle United supporters. You know, the type of stress that ruins a person’s entire week, and sometimes month.
The front office at St. James’ Park needs to wake up and sack Steve Bruce.
The first type of stress is centered on the fact that Bruce does not know his best team, and even when he does select a strong team he gets the tactics all wrong.
A perfect example can be taken from the Arsenal game – how on earth does a manager play Callum Wilson and Andy Carroll together up top, but does not start any traditional wingers who can deliver quality balls into the box? Only Bruce.
Another example is the weak, defensive-minded team Bruce deployed against rock bottom Sheffield United, which ultimately enabled them to walk all over the Toon to claim their first victory of the season. A different headache arises every week with Bruce’s team selection and constantly changing formations.
The second type of stress is also linked to his tactics and how far back they have held Newcastle United from other mid-table teams. Fans are rightfully becoming envious of other clubs that have adapted to playing expansive football against every opponent.
While they are all progressing, the Toon Army is left looking over their shoulder to see what the score is in games involving Burnley, Brighton, Fulham, and West Brom.
Did they pick up any points? Do we still have a decent cushion to stay a step ahead of the bottom three? These are the thoughts running through the fans’ minds instead of being excited for each upcoming game. The fear of relegation is real under this manager.