Newcastle United‘s recent 3-1 defeat to Brighton has sparked a heated discussion. Alan Shearer, a Newcastle legend, weighed in by expressing his disappointment in manager Eddie Howe’s decision to bench Callum Wilson yet again. According to Shearer, Wilson has “every right” to demand a starting role given his recent form off the bench.
Alan Shearer Urges Eddie Howe to Rethink Callum Wilson’s Role Amid Newcastle’s Struggles
The Numbers Don’t Lie
This is the fourth consecutive game where Wilson started on the bench and yet managed to score. Alexander Isak, in contrast, has not found the back of the net since the first game of the season against Aston Villa. Clearly, the stats support Shearer’s argument.
Troubling Signs for the Magpies
Newcastle’s form this season raises several red flags. Since the opening game, they have struggled to maintain consistency in the Premier League. Moreover, they are set to compete in the Champions League after the international break, adding another layer of complexity to their schedule.
Shearer’s Take on the Issue
Alan Shearer didn’t hold back in criticizing Howe’s decision to keep Wilson on the bench. He applauded Wilson’s skillful goal against Brighton, emphasizing how he alone earned some credit for Newcastle in that game. Shearer suggested Wilson would be “really angry” with the manager and should be demanding a starting position for the next game.
The Burden of Success
Last season, Newcastle lost only five Premier League games and secured a top-four finish. This success, however, has turned them into a target. Teams now treat Newcastle as one of the Premier League’s elite, regardless of their current form.
Dealing with the Pressure
Newcastle must adapt to their new status and heightened expectations. If they continue to falter in the Premier League, their Champions League campaign could also be at risk. This double whammy could quickly turn a season of promise into a nightmare scenario.
He said: “It’s a really clever finish from Wilson. Just watch the outside of the right foot, the balance. Clever. He sorts of guides it in. He would have been really angry with the manager because he’s not started. Not started again and didn’t start the last game. No-one could come off that pitch with any credit, other than him in a Newcastle shirt. He has got every right to bang on the manager’s door and insist ‘Start me, play me in the next game’.”
Final Thoughts
Alan Shearer’s concerns are not only valid but also timely. Newcastle are at a critical juncture, where decisions can shape the rest of their season. Eddie Howe should seriously consider starting Callum Wilson in the upcoming games to regain some semblance of form. After all, Wilson has proven himself capable, and sitting him on the bench seems like a wasted opportunity.
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Newcastle must tackle their recent struggles head-on, and that could start with rethinking Wilson’s role in the squad. The next few games will be crucial in determining their trajectory for the rest of the season.
