Ryan Fraser reportedly angers Scotland with Newcastle decision

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Ryan Fraser is one Newcastle player who will desperately hope to improve under Eddie Howe.

The winger has really struggled since moving to the north east, unable to nail down a place in the starting XI. A combination of poor form, ill-fitting tactics and injury have made Fraser’s Newcastle transfer a disaster.

But a change of manager could bring a change of fortunes for the 27-year-old. And it is a manager who Fraser knows very well.

Howe brought the midfielder to English football back in 2013, signing him for £400,000 from Aberdeen.

Fraser played the best football of his career under Howe, particularly the 2018/19 season where only Eden Hazard registered more Premier League assists.

Now Fraser is reunited with Howe, who was announced as Newcastle United’s new manager on Monday.

Ryan Fraser withdraws from Scotland squad

It initially looked like Fraser would miss the opening sessions from Howe’s tenure at Newcastle after being called up to the Scotland squad.

Scotland have two important games coming up against Denmark and Moldova, as they look to at least secure a playoff place for next year’s World Cup in Qatar.

However, Fraser won’t be able to help his international teammates after withdrawing from the squad due to injury.

This is a decision that has angered Scotland according to the Daily Mail, as Fraser took part in Howe’s first training session at Newcastle. However, the Magpies reportedly claim that he did not take part in the full session.

Has Fraser taken a massive risk to help his Newcastle career?

Fraser may truly be injured and have no chance of playing in either of Scotland’s two upcoming games. But there will be dismay up north if he starts for Newcastle on November 20th.

That is the first game of the Eddie Howe era, as the Magpies take on Brentford at St James’ Park.

The next week or so will be vital for the players, as they battle for a place in Howe’s first starting XI.

Fraser will no doubt want to be involved, having previously excelled under Howe before his Toon turmoil.

However, his decision to stay with his club could possibly jeopardise his future with Scotland. Will Steve Clarke think twice about picking Fraser again after this international break?

That would be devastating for the Newcastle winger, especially with a possible World Cup appearance on the horizon.

However, all Newcastle fans will care about is Fraser’s performances in a black and white shirt. And if he can impress in training after returning to full fitness, perhaps he can play a starring role in Howe’s first game as Toon boss.