Newcastle United are sinking - and fast. Consecutive Premier League defeats has sent alarm bells ringing around Tyneside louder than at any point during the Saudi-backed era.
There is no denying that the Magpies suffered a hangover from a hectic summer transfer window. However, Brentford - who put Newcastle to the sword on Sunday - have also been forced to rebuild in recent months.
The Bees lost their manager, captain and two main goalscorers to give Newcastle zero excuses for the weekend’s debacle. Fingers have been pointed at the manager, recruitment, the system and the hectic fixture for the recent downturn in form.
A quote often - some argue incorrectly - attributed to Albert Einstein reads: “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results .” Using that logic, something has to change at St James’ Park.
NewcastleWorld have profiled a new-look system that could kick-start United’s stuttering season. Several high-profile figures have been axed, with this Magpies outfit operating in a 4-4-1-1 or 4-2-3-1 formation.
If Eddie Howe ripped up his trusted 4-3-3 and followed our lead, would Newcastle’s springboard into the European places? Take a look at our proposed XI below.
Has a fight on his hands to keep Aaron Ramsdale out given recent performances at West Ham and Brentford. Still the best shot-stopper at the club.
1. GK - Nick Pope
Has a fight on his hands to keep Aaron Ramsdale out given recent performances at West Ham and Brentford. Still the best shot-stopper at the club. | Getty Images
It is no surprise that Newcastle's form has nosedived since Livramento's injury. The Magpies are desperate to get him back in action.
2. RB - Tino Livramento
It is no surprise that Newcastle's form has nosedived since Livramento's injury. The Magpies are desperate to get him back in action. | Getty Images
Arguably Newcastle's player of the season so far. What a bargain for £30million.
3. CB - Malick Thiaw
Arguably Newcastle's player of the season so far. What a bargain for £30million. | Getty Images
Not his finest hour at Brentford but his partnership with Thiaw has shown early promise. It is between the Dutchman or Dan Burn for the other centre-back spot.
4. CB - Sven Botman
Not his finest hour at Brentford but his partnership with Thiaw has shown early promise. It is between the Dutchman or Dan Burn for the other centre-back spot. | Getty Images