By Daniel Ghorbal
Despite still sitting in an ominous position, it is definite to say that Newcastle’s performances in recent weeks have been an improvement on things under Steve Bruce.
Although a 4-0 defeat at Leicester goes down as their most recent result, Eddie Howe has started to put an identity on the team as they give themselves a fighting chance of Premier League survival.
Until recently, the Magpies were winless in the top flight, drawing several games but struggling to pick up maximum points despite the huge takeover that has finally been concluded.
When the takeover by a Saudi Arabian consortium was finally announced, many presumed that the injection of cash would make Newcastle a competitive force within England once again, forgetting that the task at hand is simply to survive with what is a desperately poor squad.
A 1-0 victory over Burnley was crucial for the spirit of the team, yet home draws against Brentford and Norwich underlined the issues that are still ongoing.
Taking the Norwich game as an example, the mood around the ground was upbeat heading into the game, but such enthusiasm was dispersed within minutes as Ciaran Clark was sent off after trying to rectify his own mistake.
As a starting point in games against Liverpool, cutting out mistakes and keeping things simple is the bare minimum for Newcastle, ensuring that if they are to be defeated at Anfield it is not on their own accord. We saw Leeds slumber to a 7-0 defeat at Manchester City last night and the main downfall for them despite some City brilliance was the constant stream of errors letting them down.
Liverpool are on an excellent run at the minute and therefore limiting the likes of Mane, Salah and Jota to as few chances as possible is imperative. At the same time, Howe needs to be brave in his approach and trust the likes of Saint-Maximin and Wilson to cause issues of their own. Despite some monumental defensive deficiencies, Newcastle undoubtedly have a goal in their ranks and can get at Liverpool if they are patient and wait for the chances to come.
Reflecting upon their season so far, an issue I have noticed is that of attitude. This is not to say Newcastle players do not try, but it seems apparent that when things go against them, it is hard to see them rallying and keeping spirits high despite some setbacks is a tough ask for them. The worry for them here is that Liverpool take an early lead, perhaps a 2-0 lead and things capitulate. It is clear that Howe needs points at a decent rate now if they are to stay up, but games such as this require a suitable balanced approach.
Individually, Newcastle have some talented players in their ranks, it is just whether or not the chemistry is ignited at a soon enough date. The likes of Shelvey, Joelinton and Schar seem to be rejuvenated playing regularly, and if the recruitment in January is right then the feeling around the club is that they have enough to stay up.
Predicted XI: Dubravka, Manquillo, Schar, Lascelles (c), Lewis, Shelvey, Willock, Hayden, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin, Wilson
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