It’s difficult to know what to really make of Newcastle United two games into the season.
Newcastle battled adversity to beat Southampton at home after Fabian Schar’s controversial red card to claim what looked a hard-fought three points at St James’ Park on the opening weekend.
It certainly wasn’t pretty but got Eddie Howe’s side up and running in the Premier League, raising hope for the trip to Bournemouth on Sunday.
Still, and while Newcastle had their chances, Howe’s side were lucky to have escaped the Vitality Stadium with a point following a controversial VAR call to have denied the Cherries a late winner.
Indeed, it’s been a pretty underwhelming – albeit not terrible – start to the season.
Pundit Jamie Redknapp has now delivered his verdict on the club’s top six chances.
Jamie Redknapp admits he’s worried watching Newcastle now
Speaking on Sky Sports at 7.25pm BST on 25/08/2024, Redknapp admitted he was now concerned about Newcastle getting into the top six following their performance down on the south coast.
“I think looking at Newcastle today, I would worry about them, to be honest,” he said.
“When I look at the top six, I think it’s going to be difficult for them. They look like they could do with a couple of players. Isak and Guimaraes are obviously their outstanding players. I know they have got a few injuries, but Bournemouth were certainly the better team.”
Newcastle need some reinforcements – and quickly
It’s now imperative sporting director Paul Mitchell is able to bring in some reinforcements during what remains of the summer transfer window.
Doing so will not be easy, particularly with sections of Newcastle’s ownership said to have been frustrated about their inability to spend this summer.
Still, Howe’s side have looked lethargic for most of their opening two games, as well as short of ideas. Obviously, two games offers only a small sample size and a big win over Tottenham before the international break would change the narrative pretty rapidly.
However, right now, the mood music isn’t exactly great.
Some fresh faces would surely help raise morale, offering signs of progress after a difficult campaign last year.
Unless Newcastle somehow raise their game, getting into the top six looks very difficult indeed.
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