Jacob Murphy provided his first assist of the season in Newcastle United’s win against Wolves, but there is no confirmation on whether he will start against Barcelona.
There is no doubt that the 30-year-old was the Magpies’ surprise player of the season in the 2024/25 campaign, with his work on the right wing a big part of securing Champions League football for this season.
Newcastle United kick off their Champions League campaign on Thursday, where they host Spanish giants Barcelona at St James’ Park. Howe will be without Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey for the game, but can still pick a very strong squad for the game under the lights.
Having started the last two Premier League games, Jacob Murphy could be in line to start against Barcelona. The Englishman collaborated with Nick Woltemade in Newcastle’s 1-0 win against Wolves, showing Howe that he still has what it takes to be a starter when it matters.
Despite that, Howe could still look to use summer signing Anthony Elanga, who has had a rather slow start to life on Tyneside after his £55m move. Talk of Newcastle’s attacking lineup has since caused debate on social media.
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Newcastle United fans agree Anthony Elanga should start against Barcelona
Murphy is putting pressure on Elanga to perform at Newcastle, but the 23-year-old has the perfect opportunity to impress if given the chance by Howe against Barca.
Elanga’s pace could prove to be a real problem for Barca’s backline, but the question is whether Howe should take the risk of him tiring out before full time, or use his pace to Newcastle’s advantage late in the game when everyone else is fatigued.
Speaking on whether Murphy or Elanga should start, Newcastle fans have taken to the social media platform X to share their opinion.
“Murphy absolutely doesn’t deserve to be “dropped” but Barcelona have the highest line in world football history, there will be a lot of space in between and not so much space for crossing. Wolte with Gordon and Elanga is going to be crucial here. It’s an offside trap like never seen before,” said one fan, while another added: “Elanga for me over Murphy. Barca are going to have 70/80% possession, so we’re going to need that counter-attacking pace. Game doesn’t suit Jacob imo.”
This Newcastle fan also thinks they have an idea of Howe’s tactical approach, saying: “Genuinely think Elanga starts just simply due to No Balde. And they have a high line, so with Elanga’s pace, he can get in behind for through balls.”
“Murphy will disappear against Barcelona, we need Elanga for this one.” said this insistent Newcastle fan.
Another fan added: “Elanga for his pace and was rested at the weekend. Murphy to come on as a sub and start on Sunday (against Bournemouth).
Finally, this Newcastle fan said: “Elanga or Murphy – it’s a great dilemma for the manager to have. Both will play a part on Thursday night.”
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Eddie Howe will be pleased to have a selection dilemma at Newcastle United
Like the final comment says, having to choose between two quality wingers is a great problem for Howe to have, especially in a position that has been problematic in the past.
Murphy hit his best form last season, forcing Miguel Almiron out of the starting XI and eventually out of the club. Elanga is clearly the heir to the throne at right-wing, but he must be patient while Murphy enjoys the best times of his career before solidifying his place in Howe’s starting lineup.
Whatever decision Howe makes on Thursday, the fans must back it as the right call. It gives Newcastle the best opportunity of attacking the game against a brilliant Barca side.
The excitement is brewing about this game, and it is only a matter of time before the fans will get to see the Magpies back at St James’ Park for what could be an iconic Champions League clash.
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