A big defeat at Tottenham rounded off a pretty miserable week for Newcastle United.
Eddie Howe’s side continue to struggle on the road and the 8-0 thumping of Sheffield United remains their only Premier League victory away from St James’ Park.
Indeed, Newcastle were battered by Spurs. While Miguel Almiron did miss a great chance and Alexander Isak saw one taken off his toes, it would be fairly ridiculous to suggest the hosts didn’t deserve their 4-1 victory.
In fact, it could well have been more. Gary Neville, who was speaking on Sky Sports during commentary for the game, believes Fabian Schar got away with one.
Fabian Schar: Gary Neville says Newcastle star got “lucky” vs Tottenham
While already 2-0 up, Spurs had another chance after they robbed Newcastle of the ball.
Joelinton was dispossessed by Pape Matar Sarr, leading to a shot from Brennan Johnson.
Although that flew just past the post, Neville said Schar was lucky the Welshman missed the target after not closing him down.
“Every time they’ve won the ball back Newcastle, they’ve been so poor in possession. Schar just stands a couple of yards off Johnson,” he said at 17:12 GMT.
“He decides not to close him down and is lucky. It skims the post.
“They look so tired, Newcastle. Absolutely knackered. If you’re tired and physically not right, it doesn’t help you as a footballer. But they could still be better on the ball as they would not have to do so much running.”
Tottenham vs Newcastle: The latest away day misery
There’s only so many times you can point to how many injuries Newcastle have. Granted, they might be playing more games than Tottenham, but its not as if they are without absentee problems of their own.
The away form is a major concern. Over the next few weeks, there are trips to Chelsea and Sunderland in cup competitions.
Losing those, particularly the latter, would undoubtedly sour the season.
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