Newcastle United take on Aston Villa this Sunday, and with Matt Targett unable to play against his parent side, Javier Manquillo should get the nod to start at left-back.
Targett impressed in Tuesday’s 3-1 win against Everton. He definitely would’ve made the starting XI for the Magpies had they not come up against Villa next. He joined on deadline day on loan until the end of the season but doesn’t have an option or obligation to buy clause according to The Athletic.
The home clash will be a test for Newcastle’s other left-back options with no Targett. Of all the options at Eddie Howe’s disposal, the Spaniard Manquillo should get the nod.
Manquillo was effective against Leeds and the best cover of the options available
Eddie Howe’s options for Sunday are limited. Paul Dummett is currently injured, as is Matt Ritchie. Meanwhile, Jamal Lewis was removed from the 25-man squad at the end of the window.
Dan Burn is the only other available option at left-back. But he may remain as the back-up centre-back option, especially after Jamaal Lascelles’ exceptional performance against Everton.
For Manquillo, it’s a position he can fill in and has done so well recently. In a big 1-0 over Leeds, the 27-year-old came on at left-back for Dummett. The full-back played really well, causing Raphinha to switch wings in the process.
Furthermore, Manquillo’s run down the left-hand side drove them forward and he won a free-kick in a dangerous area. That free-kick was converted by Jonjo Shelvey, giving Newcastle all three points.
Since arriving on Tyneside back in 2017, Manquillo has proven to be a reliable option for the Magpies in either full-back position. He’s a name that you feel comfortable seeing on the team sheet – you know what you’re getting with him.
Newcastle have momentum going into Sunday’s fixture with Aston Villa. With no Targett available, Manquillo should start at left-back. He’s proven over the years that he’s more than capable, most recently in the away win at Elland Road.
Losing Targett is certainly a blow after his impressive debut, but Manquillo is a more than adequate replacement.
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