Simon Jordan has called on Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes to step up for Newcastle United amid their current crisis.
The term ‘crisis’ might be a strong word to describe Newcastle United’s current form and results but it’s difficult to think of a more apt description.
For arguably the first time as manager, Eddie Howe is starting to come under question from some Newcastle United fans.
While calling for his removal seems drastic at best right now, there’s no doubt that things haven’t gone to plan for the Newcastle United manager this season. Sitting two points off the relegation zone after 11 Premier League games wasn’t on anyone’s bingo card.
Still, Howe isn’t the only one to blame. His players are letting him down, with many of them desperately out of form.
Jordan wants more from Tonali and Guimaraes, though at least half of that assertion feels somewhat unfair.
Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali celebrate Newcastle United's goal against Union Saint-Gillose in the Champions League.
Photo by JOHN THYS/AFP via Getty Images
Simon Jordan calls on Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes to step up for Newcastle United
The former Crystal Palace owner was speaking about Newcastle’s dreadful away form on talkSPORT.
Jordan suggested it wasn’t a huge cause for concern. While he agreed that things need to improve, he believes that Newcastle are broadly doing fine this season given their Champions League form and their Carabao Cup campaign.
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Still, towards the end of his answer, Jordan told both Tonali and Guimaraes to step up.
“Where’s the big players?,” he asked.
“Guimaraes and Tonali. Those are the guys you’ve got to look to.”
Bruno Guimaraes is the one who should step up for Newcastle United not Sandro Tonali
Is Tonali in perfect form? Clearly not.
The Italian, however, is playing more consistently than Guimaraes. The Newcastle skipper is a hero amongst supporters and has produced some big moments this season, but not often enough.
It’s all well and good putting on a show when there’s a big home game but the away form – while not limited to Guimaraes – is a major issue.
In the 32nd minute against Brentford on Sunday, Guimaraes celebrated a tackle. That was his highlight, and such antics do not cut the mustard when the team is playing so badly.
Tonali has consistently played well for Newcastle during a difficult season for the club. Guimaraes hasn’t been without his moments but is generally playing well below the levels fans have come to expect.
To place all of the blame on him would be unfair. Of the two, however, Guimaraes should be the one listening more intently to Jordan.