Bruce and Hayden think this duo will save Newcastle United

Newcastle United will host Leeds United at St. James’ Park tomorrow, and Steve Bruce could be sent home with a pink slip if Marcelo Bielsa’s men run wild on the Toon again. The last meeting at Elland Road ended in a 5-2 thrashing of the Magpies.

Newcastle United need to turn things around as they deal with a ten-game winless streak, but it is difficult to see that happening when the players’ confidence is so low. In order for a revival to occur, collective urgency will be required, but Isaac Hayden and Steve Bruce think two players in particular can save this season.

Both Hayden and Bruce highlighted the immediate impact Allan Saint-Maximin and Ryan Fraser had on the team when they came on together in the second half against Aston Villa. The duo did not influence the outcome, but Newcastle United were more of a threat going forward.

According to Hayden’s interview for NUFC TV, the central midfielder praised Fraser and Saint-Maximin for providing instant offense. Hayden went on to say, “It was good to see Allan and Ryan Fraser back involved tonight [vs. Aston Villa]. I thought when they came on we changed the formation. We had a bit more of an attacking impetus.”

Allan Saint-Maximin and Ryan Fraser to the rescue for Newcastle United?

Bruce made a similar observation in his press conference by saying, “Let’s hope they [Saint-Maximin and Fraser] can both stay well because they can provide the ammunition we need.” This is a rare occurrence where Bruce is spot on with his on-the-field assessment.

The dynamic wingers are capable of boosting the team’s offensive efficiency by creating chances for themselves and others around them. Their playmaking abilities will also attract more defensive attention, which should see Newcastle United enjoy more possession of the ball, and more runners will find avenues into the box.

Regardless, Newcastle United should not be in the position they are in at the moment, and they should not be relying on two players to save the season.

This downward spiral was caused by Bruce’s outdated tactics and confusing lineup selections, but there is still time to reverse this trend. Callum Wilson is certainly smiling about the return of both wingers, so all fans can hope for is more goals and a form reversal.