Newcastle United find themselves in a difficult position as they are currently closer to playing Championship football next season than maintaining their Premier League status. The Toon need to have a “back against the wall” mentality in every remaining game if they wish to survive.
The tactics have changed for the better since the arrival of assistant coach Graeme Jones, and Newcastle United have claimed some big wins over Everton and Southampton in recent weeks, but they absolutely must take six points from their upcoming games against Wolverhampton (H) and West Brom (A).
Steve Bruce’s inconsistent formations and ultra-defensive style of play placed Newcastle United in this deep hole, but complacency among certain players has also contributed to this wasted season. A handful of players have ran their socks off for the crest on their jerseys, but others are simply roaming around the pitch.
Newcastle United are in dire need of a major transformation this summer, starting with the manager, but several players need to find new homes. Below is a list of nine players who should move on from the club this summer.
In total, Newcastle United need to move and replace at least nine players this summer.
Moving nine players calls for a busy summer, and it might not be a realistic task as a result of operating on a low budget due to playing the entire season behind closed doors. Generally speaking though, the players listed below need to go:
- Jamaal Lascelles, Fabian Schar, Emil Krafth
- Jonjo Shelvey, Sean Longstaff, Matt Ritchie
- Christian Atsu, Andy Carroll, and Joelinton
Some of the names on that list might come as a surprise to you, while others are obvious selections. The name that probably stands out to most of you is Jamaal Lascelles.
On a good day, Lascelles has a positive impact on the pitch, but, in my opinion, he is one of the worst captains to ever lead this club. He is not a vocal leader, and has often times served a “yes” man who defends the front office.
Matt Ritchie is a blue collar midfielder who gives his all in every game, but he has fallen down the pecking order, his overall impact has declined, and he always seems to be interested in a move away from St. James’ Park. Jonjo Shelvey gives fans the greatest headache of all the players.
The mercurial midfielder can influence the outcome in any game when he is up for it, but his inconsistent form, especially when tasked with defensive duties, is hard to watch. It is time for the club to make Shelvey available, and they should work even harder in the same regard for Sean Longstaff.
The disparity in fees paid for Andy Carroll and Joelinton is £40m, but they have one thing in common: they are both useless. Carroll is too slow and injury prone to be a threat in the final third, and Joelinton has completely failed to adapt to his role as a striker.
Many of these players need to leave, and if money is tight on Tyneside this is one way to create funds. Sell to spend on their replacements, and navigate the loan market for some bargain deals. There is much better talent out there.