As Newcastle United continues to find stellar play, one inconsistent issue has been the team’s left-back position.
After Matt Targett went down with an injury, center-back Dan Burn was placed into that role, and even with Targett back, Burn has stayed in his spot. Although Newcastle United Manager Eddie Howe has trusted Burn, his on-the-pitch play has sometimes been difficult to defend.
Howe runs a very systematic offense and defense that can eliminate some players from growing their role on the squad. Unfortunately, for Targett, he’s fallen victim to that systematic approach.
With Burn in the left-back role, the hope was that he could provide consistent defense, no more and no less.
Howe’s system enjoys having speedy and versatile defenders like captain Kieran Trippier, but Burn hinders that greatly. He’s not speedy, he provides no offensive threat and his defense has been lackluster at best.
He normally thrives as a center-back, but on the left side, the opposing wingers have been able to fly past him and create great chances.
So, should Newcastle United make a move this offseason to replace the struggling 30-year-old?
Well, yes and no.
The team needs to find a legitimate left back, and a prominent option is Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney, whom we highlighted in early February.
He’s been disgruntled with his time at the club and is seeking a fresh start and Newcastle United could be that fresh start he needs. Currently, his worth sits at roughly £25 million, something the team could easily scrounge up to throw at the first-place Premier League side.
With that being said, that would kick Burn and Targett out of their spots at left-back.
However, Burn can stay with the Magpies as the backup center-back. That would be the most ideal fit for both parties.
Burn is getting up there in age, and Newcastle has continued to shine atop the Premier League standings. It would be perfect for Burn to stay and back up both Sven Botman and Fabian Schar to help the team in tournament play.
It’ll only be a matter of time until the Magpies have to make a move in the offseason and its uncertain whether or not they will stick with Burn in the back.
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