Newcastle 27-year-old proves Eddie Howe right against Everton

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Eddie Howe orchestrated another Newcastle United win on Thursday night, and he was able to do it after rotating his side.

Newcastle made three changes to the team that battered Tottenham 6-1, with Eddie Howe drafting in Matt Targett, Miguel Almiron and Callum Wilson.

It looked like a bold decision when the team was announced, but it paid off. Wilson bagged a brace, allowing him to become Newcastle’s top scorer this season with 13.

Howe’s changes were surprising. He took out Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy, who scored two goals in each in the win over Spurs. As for Dan Burn, he has been a mainstay in the Toon defence.

But the manager has explained why he made the changes he did, with one of them being enforced.

Eddie Howe explains why Matt Targett started against Everton

After the game, Howe spoke to the Northern Echo. He explained why he made three changes and took time to praise Targett for his performance.

“It’s always difficult when you’ve got decisions to make,” he said.

“I’ve got to look at the balance of the team and make the right decisions, not just for this game but also for the games that are ahead. There’s a plan behind my thinking.

“Dan Burn was a slightly different situation (to Murphy and Isak) because he wasn’t feeling very good in the build-up to the game.

“But I thought Matt Targett did really well, and I think that shows the strength of the squad. It’s good to see players coming in and taking their opportunities.”

Targett impresses as Newcastle show their depth

That was Targett’s first competitive start since November. And it was his first Premier League start since September.

When you take that into consideration, he did pretty well. It was a typical Targett performance, dogged in one-on-one situations and composed in possession.

The 27-year-old did have a few shaky moments, but so did everyone in a Toon shirt in the first half.

Earlier in the month, Howe predicted that Targett would take the opportunity as soon as one came his way, and that has proven to be the case.

The left-back’s performance highlights the growing depth at Howe’s disposal, and he was delighted to see the summer signing come in and do well.

Now it is up to Howe to decide whether or not he keeps his place in the side to face Southampton on Sunday.