Newcastle United at home and Newcastle United away from home are two completely different teams.
Eddie Howe is struggling to find consistency in his team’s performances this season, with Newcastle boasting serious issues on the road.
The Magpies have won just two away games this season. The first was the 8-0 thrashing of Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, while the second was the 3-0 Carabao Cup dominance against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
When Newcastle win away, they win in style. However, they are not doing it often enough. It is a stark contrast to playing at St James’ Park, where the Magpies are pretty much unstoppable.
Sadly for Newcastle, their next game is away from home. They take on Tottenham in the capital, with Paul Merson predicting another defeat for Howe’s side.
That would be a real shame heading into Wednesday’s Champions League clash with AC Milan. That fixture is absolutely huge, and Newcastle could do with some momentum going into it.
Martin Dubravka is hopeful they can do just that, and the 34-year-old is eager to repay the travelling Toon Army for their wonderful support away from home.
Martin Dubravka comments on the Newcastle fans
Following the 3-0 defeat to Everton, Dubravka spoke to NUFC TV. He was asked about the club’s contrasting fortune on the road compared to when they play at St James’ Park.
“St James’ Park is a special place to play,” he said.
“Our fans create an amazing atmosphere for us.
“But also our away fans, who travel so far, we are so thankful, grateful for how they are supporting us. We would love to take some points from away stadiums and deliver but sometimes it’s not easy. Every Premier League team knows how to play football.”
Tiredness is hurting Newcastle away from home
As Dubravka says, playing away from home is not easy. We found that out again last night, with Everton bettering us in every department.
That is not something that should be happening when you compare the two sides, but it did on Thursday.
Tiredness is a major factor, and it is even more of an issue away from home. While the travelling Toon Army make a lot of noise with their singing, it is never going to be the same as the St James’ Park roar. That kind of noise will give players a lift, allowing them to push through the tiredness and get a result.
The Champions League games have also impacted Newcastle’s away form, as four out of five of the Magpies’ European fixtures have been followed by an away fixture. That has to be taken into consideration.
Like everyone associated with Newcastle, Dubravka is thankful and grateful for the travelling support. On Sunday they need to prove just how grateful and thankful they are as they head to Tottenham.
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