Newcastle United haven’t started with a back five since Eddie Howe’s first game as manager.
That was against Brentford, where Howe tried not to change too much on his Toon debut.
Since that 3-3 draw, the Magpies have started every game with a 4-4-2 formation. Of course, that was torn up against Norwich when Ciaran Clark was sent off.
Meanwhile, they have shifted to a back five in the games against Arsenal, Burnley and Leicester. And it’s a system that should return from the off on Thursday night.
Newcastle back five required at Anfield
Things aren’t getting any easier for Newcastle, as they prepare for a trip to Anfield to face Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp’s side are battling for the Premier League title, going toe-to-toe with Manchester City and Chelsea.
The Reds have been sensational this season, scoring more goals than any other Premier League team so far. That’s a terrifying prospect for Newcastle, who have conceded more goals than another Premier League team so far.
While it’s an appalling attitude, this game might just be a case of damage limitations for Newcastle. Realistically, it’s going to be a real struggle on Thursday night.
It’s hard to see how we can get anything out of the game. Defensively, we’re all over the shop. And going forwards, there’s no chance we can just try and outscore them.
Sadly, we need to park the bus. And to do that, we need to play with a back five. If we can crowd our box and limit Liverpool’s chances in and around the area, perhaps we can leave Merseyside without getting embarrassed.
It’s absolutely not the way Newcastle should be going about things, but needs must at a time like this. We’ve got a poor squad lacking confidence, going up against one of the best sides in the world. What else is there to do?
Even if it’s just for the next few games, Howe must go defensive and ensure our goal difference doesn’t get drastically worse than it already is.
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