‘Especially’… Alan Shearer says Newcastle are really missing two players right now
Newcastle United need the season to end.
While Newcastle still has a chance to qualify for European football this season, it’s hard to believe they’ll be consistent enough to accomplish it.
Eddie Howe has been perplexed by the lack of consistency this season, and with no FA Cup left after Saturday night’s defeat at Manchester City, the campaign appears to be on the verge of collapse.
The goal, of course, is that the next time out will be better for the club.
A busy summer transfer window is expected, despite ongoing FFP concerns.
Hopefully, some of the injury issues will begin to clear up. Howe is still missing a number of vital players, with Alan Shearer identifying two in particular.
Newcastle injury news: Alan Shearer on Nick Pope and Joelitnon
Speaking to BBC One after the game, Shearer identified Nick Pope and Joelinton as Newcastle’s greatest absentees.
“This season has been tough for Newcastle, but there have been mitigating circumstances – the injuries, especially to Nick Pope and Joelinton,” stated the Newcastle manager.
“They miss both of those players a lot.”
Pope is not likely to return until the end of April after suffering a dislocated shoulder in December, and Joelinton will have to fight to play again this season after undergoing thigh surgery.
Newcastle injury news: Pope and Joelinton returns will be huge
Howe was said to be devastated when Pope was hurt, highlighting how essential the goalie is to his ambitions.
Martin Dubravka has had some bright moments, yet he has also received criticism. At the very least, Pope’s return should aid the defence.
Joelinton, meantime, is critical to Howe’s powerful style. According to FBREF data, no regular Newcastle starter averages more tackles and interceptions per game (3.73). He also ranks in the top three for recoveries during the same time span (5.87), and that kind of intensity was lacking at City.
Among Newcastle’s injuries, those two are especially missed.