The fallout from Newcastle United’s defeat at Brentford has been rather alarming.
While the fact the Bees boast the best home record in the Premier League this season surely must be taken into account, Newcastle’s performance was concerning.
The fact they conceded such sloppy goals even after getting themselves back into the game was yet another frustration in a season absolutely full of them.
Newcastle can point to great performances at home against the biggest teams in the division but they count for little when they throw games away like they did in west London.
Eddie Howe was rather scathing in his view. The Newcastle United manager claimed his side would “cringe” when watching the goals back before going on to question their attitude.
Bruno Guimaraes admitted the team were a “mess” towards the closing stages, while Alan Shearer slammed the display as “hopeless”.
Such has been the wildly inconsistent form this season, it’s difficult to place the blame of any one single player.
Stil, talkSPORT pundit Jason Cundy had an awful lot to say about one player in particular.
Nathan Collins of Brentford scores his team's third goal past Nick Pope of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Brentford FC an...
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Jason Cundy now expects Newcastle to sell one key player
Indeed, Cundy was not impressed with Nick Pope’s performance in goal.
The England international, hailed as “incredible” by one Steve Harper, was beaten four times in west London and arguably could have done better for a few of the goals.
“If Newcastle want to be where they feel they should be – and that’s in and around those top European places – I ain’t sure he’s good enough, mate,” he said to Jamie O’Hara on talkSPORT.
“No, I’m not sure he’s going to be good enough.”
He added: “I think if Newcastle really want to move towards where they want to be, I think Nick Pope will probably find himself surplus to requirements.”
Questions are starting to mount about Nick Pope
Few would doubt Pope has proven a brilliant signing since arriving from Burnley. Earlier this season, he was tipped as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.
Still, that’s not to say he’s absolutely perfect. There have long been doubts about his ability with the ball at his feet, while he was also questioned for his role in Crystal Palace’s late goal last week.
At some point, a difficult conversation may have to take place.
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