Local lad Matty Longstaff was the hero against Manchester United, but another academy product also played his part in a huge victory – Andy Carroll.
The big man made his third appearance of the season off the bench, replacing the isolated Joelinton in the 56th minute. The Brazilian was really struggling, but bringing Carroll on so early seemed like a risk considering his lack of match fitness.
But the 30-year-old was brilliant and gave everyone a lift. While he didn’t score, he was a real team player against Manchester United and was crucial to getting all three points.
Joelinton couldn’t really get into the game, but Carroll forced his way into it. You could tell as soon as he came on that the Man United defenders didn’t like being up against him.
He was a handful, drawing fouls and winning duels. He used the ball well, bringing others into the game. And he was also helpful at the other end of the pitch, winning crucial headers, putting in emphatic blocks and filling in in midfield as we defended a 1-0 lead.
His only minor error was a miscommunication with Martin Dubravka as they challenged each other to win a cross into the box.
Carroll almost did get that elusive first goal of the season, but his header from Longstaff’s cross went over the bar. But it was a great performance off the bench from Carroll, who is putting Joelinton under serious pressure now.
Newcastle fans react to Carroll’s latest substitute appearance
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