Former Newcastle United midfielder Rob Lee expressed his concern about Eddie Howe’s starting XI to face Everton.
The Magpies are taking on the Toffees at St. James’ Park, and it’s a huge Premier League game.
Newcastle ran out 1-0 winners last time out against Leeds United.
Jonjo Shelvey’s free-kick was the difference between the two teams at Elland Road, and optimism is high ahead of this one.
Fans have been buzzing to see the team back in action, after five new faces arrived at the club in January.
After completing deals for Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood, the club then swooped for Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn.
Very surprisingly, only one of the latter three is starting tonight in Targett, with Burn and Bruno on the bench.
Reacting to the line up on BT SPORT Ultimate, ex-Toon star Lee said: “I’m really surprised because the situation at Newcastle – I know they won 1-0 against Leeds last game – they just need to put them players in.
“I expected Dan Burn to play because I think he’s a very good signing. And I expected him to chuck Bruno in. The quicker he gets used to the Premier League, the better.”
It is certainly a very bold move from Howe to keep both Burn and Bruno on the bench.
You could argue that both have only just joined the club. But then, so has Targett. Although looking at the matchday squad, it doesn’t seem he had much other other choice.
A bold move from Eddie Howe as he names Newcastle XI to face Everton
Howe is certainly taking a big risk.
It remains to be seen if it’s a move that works out.
It could well be that Bruno was feeling slightly fatigued from being on international duty with Brazil. That said, Howe didn’t mention that in his pre-match interview.
Burn was also reportedly dealing with a toe injury.
Hopefully, the eleven players that have been chosen will justify the manager’s faith.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
