Howe was perplexed by his side's defensive collapse as Hansi Flick’s men scored three times in just 10 minutes after the break. Clinical finishes from Fermin and a Lewandowski brace exposed every flaw in Newcastle's backline, before Raphinha added a seventh following a Jacob Ramsey error. This ruthless display completely undermined the Magpies' tactical discipline, leaving the manager questioning their uncharacteristic lack of concentration.
Howe explained: “It was really, if we performed anywhere near, or defended anywhere near than we can, I think we'd be leading at half-time. I didn't see a need to necessarily change how we were playing at half-time. I thought we were really, really strong. But then of course we concede another set play. The first four goals we're looking at again, in terms of how we play, it's a strange execution of the goals against us.”