The Newcastle manager vented his anger after suffering a 4-2 weekend defeat
Eddie Howe watched in horror as his side's recent defensive struggles continued
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By JAMES SHARPE
Published: 17:30 EST, 8 December 2024 | Updated: 17:30 EST, 8 December 2024
The third goal annoyed Eddie Howe the most. Newcastle had twice come from behind at Brentford to head into the break on level terms. And then they let it all unravel.
A hopeful punt upfield by Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken from inside his own half should have been bread and butter for Newcastle’s centre backs but, in the swirling winds, Fabian Schar lost track of it and the ball dropped over his head as he tussled with Igor Thiago. It bounced and Nathan Collins reacted quickest to poke home.
‘You can’t defend like that and win games,’ was Toon boss Howe’s brutal assessment.
The problem for Howe is that it is becoming a habit. The Magpies have scored five goals in the last two Premier League games, this on the back of a 3-3 draw at home to Liverpool, and taken just one point.
How different this team have become to the one that conceded just 33 goals all campaign two seasons ago.
‘I don’t like the attitude of several of Newcastle’s players,’ said St James’ Park great Alan Shearer on Match of the Day.
Eddie Howe was frustrated as his Newcastle side conceded four times against Brentford
The Magpies have scored five goals in the last two Premier League games and taken just one point
‘You can’t just turn up in the big home games. They drew with Liverpool, drew with City, they beat Spurs, they beat Chelsea, they beat Arsenal.
‘This is worrying, because two years ago we were praising Newcastle for their energy, for their closing down, for their pressing. There was none of it.’