Inconsistency continues to be a big problem for Newcastle United this season.
Following an electric 3-3 draw against Liverpool midweek, Newcastle United failed to replicate that energy and intensity as they suffered defeat in London.
Newcastle looked ‘hopeless’ as they lost 4-2 to Brentford on Saturday afternoon which means Eddie Howe’s side have now won just two of their last 11 Premier League matches.
The Magpies have slumped down to 12th in the Premier League table, and questions are beginning to be asked about Howe’s future at the club.
Howe hinted at imminent Newcastle talks as he looks to go over Saturday’s disappointing defeat with his players, but pressure will only grow if he cannot solve the side’s inconsistency.
Sean Longstaff of Newcastle United FC (36) passes the ball during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Newcastle United FC at Brentfo...
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Alan Shearer spots ‘worrying’ Sean Longstaff moment
It has become a worrying trend that Newcastle’s best performances this season have come against the bigger sides, while they tend to struggle as favourites.
It is a tricky puzzle for Howe to solve, and club legend Alan Shearer spotted one pattern of play that he believes is “worrying”.
Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Shearer said: “This is worrying, because two years ago we were praising Newcastle all the time for their energy, for their closing down, for their pressing.
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“Look, there’s none of it. If you’re going to go in ones or twos then there’s no point.
“Look at Longstaff here, he goes in by himself and look at his reaction there. He’s asking where are you all? Where’s my help? No one gets within five yards of any Brentford player.”
Shearer was commenting on a moment in the first half where Sean Longstaff attempted to press Brentford but was easily passed around due to a lack of support.
Eddie Howe has three games to solve Newcastle United problem
Saturday’s defeat to Brentford caused Eddie Howe to question Newcastle’s attitude, with the Magpies boss unhappy with the way his players approached the game.
Shearer also questioned Newcastle’s attitude, and it is a problem that needs to be solved quickly. Newcastle can go toe-to-toe with any team in the division so it is not a lack of talent, but the mindset towards every game needs to be the same.
In Newcastle’s next three matches, they face clubs where they will be deemed favourites – typically the games they have struggled in this season.
READ MORE: Alan Shearer takes aim at ‘laughable’ defending from Newcastle star who got bullied at Brentford
A visit from Leicester City on Saturday afternoon is first before the Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Brentford.
Newcastle then travel to Ipswich Town in the final game before Christmas. Three wins will be on Howe’s wishlist.
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