Morrison says Newcastle’s biggest issue vs Cambridge was Wilson’s absence

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Clinton Morrison was covering Newcastle’s FA Cup clash with Cambridge for Sky Sports Soccer Saturday.

After the game, he spoke about the issues that Eddie Howe’s side faced in their shock 1-0 defeat to the League 1 side.

Callum Wilson remains out injured so Allan Saint-Maximin led the line but former striker Morrison said the Frenchman was not as much of a threat as when he comes from out wide.

There were struggles all over the pitch but Morrison said at 5.15pm on Sky Sports News he felt the biggest one was Wilson’s absence.

“They missed Callum Wilson. Saint-Maximin, they always look to him. He was lively in the first half but second half you have to give credit to Cambridge, they didn’t give him any space in behind,” he said.

“There was no-one in that number nine spot that can finish it off. They need a number nine in this window. That was the biggest struggle – no-one to finish the crosses.

“In the first half, Saint-Maximin played through the middle but he wasn’t as dangerous as he was when he comes from wide. When you’re playing as the number nine, you sometimes have to play with your back to goal and I don’t think he likes (that).

“He wants to square the defenders up and run at them but he didn’t really get much time or space. They doubled up on him.”

This was a damaging afternoon for Newcastle, and one which could really have an impact on the confidence of the players.

It may also convince the powers that be that even more signings need to come through the door between now and the end of January.

Saint-Maximin is a quality player but he cannot do it all on his own and he is better when he plays out wide rather than playing through the middle.

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