It looked like a game too far for Newcastle United on Saturday.
Sadly for Newcastle United, a brilliant six-game winning streak was put to an end in rather brutal fashion, further complicating the race for the Champions League.
Aston Villa thrashed Newcastle 4-1 on what proved a difficult day for Jason Tindall’s side.
Manager Eddie Howe is recovering from pneumonia, and the Newcastle United assistant manager was again in charge for the defeat at Villa Park.
Unai Emery’s side are brilliant at home, it must be said. Ollie Watkins tore Newcastle apart, but it does not mean there needs to be a huge cause for an alarm on Tyneside.
Howe’s side lost there in April 2023 but still managed to go on to secure a top four finish. There is no need to panic.
However, Jamie Carragher did point out a slight concern in regards to Kieran Trippier and Fabian Schar.
Jamie Carragher points out Kieran Trippier concern in Newcastle United clip
Trippier was criticised by Newcastle fans for his performance against Villa but the defender was hardly alone in looking some way off his best.
Watkins spoke of how he enjoyed playing against Schar too, so it was hardly as if the veteran right-back was alone in struggling.
What the game did expose, however, was the lack of pace in the Newcastle defence. Trippier, Schar and Dan Burn are all over 30.
Reflecting on the game, the Sky Sports pundit said the fact Trippier was worried for Schar’s pace up against the Villa attack was to blame for their second goal, scored by Ian Maatsen.
“It all comes down to the fact he was worried,” said Carragher.
“Kieran Trippier, about the pace of Watkins against Schar. That’s where this space opens up.”
Newcastle United injury news ahead of Ipswich
The lack of pace is a worry in the backline but there’s little Newcastle can do about it now.
Sven Botman will not be rushed back in action despite closing in on a return from knee surgery, while Fabian Schar suffered a hamstring problem during the Villa defeat.
That leaves only Emil Krafth as a realistic option in central defence.
Trippier has been excellent of late and, lack of speed aside, will surely prove crucial during the run-in.
Newcastle need his experience now more than ever.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
