Eddie Howe’s biggest problem exposed as alarming stat ranks Newcastle in the relegation zone

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Newcastle United are still sixth in the Premier League table after the 3-1 defeat to Fulham but one stat places them in the relegation zone.

The unbeaten start to the season is over after Fulham punished Newcastle United’s poor start at Craven Cottage.

Results so far this season have flattered Newcastle’s performances, but it finally caught up to them with a 3-1 defeat in the capital.

The performance was branded ‘awful’ by Alan Shearer, while Harvey Barnes suggested Newcastle lacked aggression.

Eddie Howe has been warned he has a “huge problem” in defence, and the underlying stats suggest one of the biggest issues is the number of shots Newcastle are facing this season.

Newcastle United facing too many shots

A strong defensive line has been a key principle of Eddie Howe‘s system since his appointment at St James’ Park, but Newcastle have looked vulnerable and fragile at the back this season.

Improving the defence was a top priority over the summer and failing to land top target Marc Guehi has certainly not helped Howe.

Injuries to Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles have also narrowed the options down at centre-back with Dan Burn forced to return to a central role to fill the void.

According to StatMuse, Newcastle have faced the third-most shots at their goal of any Premier League club this season.

The Magpies have faced 29 shots on goal in their opening five league games, a figure only topped by Southampton and Brentford.

It includes a staggering 11 shots on target from Fulham on Saturday afternoon. Had it not been for Nick Pope, Newcastle easily could have suffered an even bigger defeat.

Stats also show that Newcastle have faced 8.85 expected goals this season yet only conceded six. Only four top-flight clubs have faced more expected goals than Newcastle in 2024/25.

Newcastle United must make changes

Even before the Fulham defeat, it was clear that Newcastle needed changes and weren’t playing well.

Howe admitted that he is questioning himself over his starting lineup selection, and he is yet to stumble across his best XI this season.

The defence looks especially disjointed and a new centre-back must remain the top priority in January. But protecting from shots on goal also means the midfield must improve.

Sandro Tonali was bizarrely left on the bench for over an hour against Fulham – he needs to start. He provides so much stability and composure on the ball that helps Newcastle to dominate possession.

With a visit from reigning champions Manchester City next up, Newcastle and Howe cannot afford to make the same mistakes against Pep Guardiola’s side.