Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has admitted that he was absolutely delighted with Matt Targett’s performance on Wednesday night.
The 28-year-old came off the bench during the Magpies’ game against Borussia Dortmund, playing the final 20 minutes as they lost 1-0 in the Champions League.
Despite the result, it was an impressive cameo from Matt Targett. He replaced Dan Burn at left-back, and gave Newcastle another attacking option on that side of the pitch. The defender was able to put some lovely crosses into the box that nearly led to Howe’s side grabbing an equaliser.
While it was a difficult night overall, it was encouraging to see Targett come on and have such an impact. He is no longer a regular starter at St James’ Park, having lost his place in the side to Burn last season.
Eddie Howe has now spoke about Targett’s latest performance, and explained why he suddenly found himself out of favour last season.
Eddie Howe delighted with Matt Targett’s cameo in the Champions League
Ahead of Newcastle’s game against Wolves on Saturday, Howe has spoke to the media. He was asked to give his thoughts on Targett’s performance against Dortmund after being on the fringes for so long.
“Matt was a regular player for us,” he said.
“He’d done really well in our fight to stay in the Premier League. Then he got ill before that Fulham game.
“We won that game and performed really well as a team, so I stuck with that team. We went on a winning run and it made it difficult for him to get his place back, and Dan [Burn] in his position has been a model of consistency. They are very different players.
“I rate Matt very highly – I really do. It’s great to see him come in and do so well. I think he made a positive impact on the team’s performance on Wednesday.”
Targett has put himself in contention to start for Newcastle
It is understandable why Targett is no longer a regular starter on Tyneside.
While he was excellent during his loan spell, Dan Burn came in to his position and helped Newcastle go on a spectacular run last season. Since then, he has been Howe’s first choice left-back.
It has been difficult for Targett, who has not started too many games since signing for the Magpies permanently for £15million.
However, with the former Aston Villa lad playing so well on Wednesday and Howe clearly open to rotating this season, Saturday could be a chance for him to get a rare Premier League start.
We have included him in our predicted Toon starting XI, and it would be great to see him receive a reward for doing so well in the Champions League.
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