Former Liverpool star highlights key reason behind Newcastle United’s struggles - and it’s not injuries

Danny Murphy has highlighted Newcastle United’s poor away form as their catalyst for failure this season.

Defeat to Crystal Palace, coupled with Manchester United’s comeback win over Sheffield United, dented the Magpies’ Europa League hopes. Eddie Howe’s men were their own worst enemy as they laboured to another sluggish loss on the road.

Newcastle sit seventh with five games remaining - including a mammoth trip to Old Trafford on May 15. While November’s away win against Man United in the Carabao Cup was memorable, the Magpies will need to improve their league form to stand a chance of Europa League football.

Just four Premier League wins on the road puts Newcastle 15th in the away table. For context, the likes of Everton, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Brighton and Brighton have all fared better on their travels in 2023-24.

Compare that to last year when Newcastle were third - with their away form laying the foundations for a Champions League finish. Former Liverpool midfielder Murphy cited the downturn following United’s 2-0 defeat at Selhurst Park.

“I think it’s more their away form,” he told Match of the Day. “They have been a force at home but away (from home) they have struggled massively this season.”

Gary Lineker was also surprised at Newcastle’s performance after having 11 days off. He added: “A poor night (for Newcastle). They had a bit of a gap as well, you thought they would come back flying. They are a different side away from home, no question about that.”