Newcastle United take on Watford this weekend, and go in search of their first win in 2021/22.
The Magpies have endured an awful start to the new season, and are currently in the relegation zone.
They are also out of the Carabao Cup having lost to Burnley.
Supporters are desperate for that first victory, but many are struggling to see how it’s going to come about right now.
Newcastle are worryingly porous so far this season.
That is despite Bruce insisting on setting up with a three-man defence and wing-backs.
There has been some clamour for the manager to ditch the formation in order to be a bit bolder.
Perhaps we will see it on Saturday, but former St. James’ Park cult-hero Nolberto Solano believes it could be more of the same.
He told the Chronicle: “Newcastle are very comfortable playing away from home because of how they set up.
“The way Steve Bruce sets the team up I believe it makes it easier.
“Normally the home team is trying to push forward to try to win the game, so playing on the counter suits us.
“It’s five at the back with wing-backs for Newcastle but it’s not an attacking team.
“So Bruce has set the tone playing away.
“Watford will be piling players forward and trying to win the game because they have just been promoted, they’re excited, but it means Newcastle – if they are clever – can try to nick three points by hitting them on the counter.”
Watford have enjoyed a good start to the new season following their promotion.
The Hornets sit 11th in the table after five games, having won two and lost three.
Newcastle must try to be bolder
It is questionable whether setting up with a back five ‘makes it easier’, as Solano suggests.
Newcastle haven’t won this season and are currently the worst defensive outfit in the division.
Surely something has to change, and a formation alteration might be the way to go.
Many Newcastle fans most certainly won’t be holding their breath though
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