Lack of goals ‘not a huge concern’ for Newcastle United legend but more players ‘need to chip in’

Newcastle United have now drawn four of their last five Premier League matches following their latest result and have now slipped from third in the table to fourth behind Manchester United.

Callum Wilson scored an early opener for the hosts but Lucas Paqueta equalised later in the first half and the Magpies couldn’t break down a stubborn Hammers defence. Although they have still lost just one league match all season, Saturday’s result was their tenth draw of the campaign. The North East side now lead the way in ties with Brentford second on nine and Everton, Nottingham Forest and Chelsea some way behind with six each.

Eddie Howe’s side have also managed just two goals in their last five league matches and that might be an area for concern although one United legend says he isn’t too worried yet. Magpies’ icon Alan Shearer took his regular spot on the BBC Match of the Day couch for Saturday’s highlights show and seemed in a positive mood despite the frustrating result.

When asked by host Gary Linker if there was cause for concern over the recent record the Premier League’s all time scorer replied: “No not really, we got two in the semi finals and we’re in the final so it’s alright. Fourth in the league, I’m not complaining too much, it’s been an unbelievable season.”

Pressed by the former Leicester City man if the lack of goals was worrying, Shearer added: “What was happening earlier in the season was Almiron was practically scoring from every angle and that has sort of dried up now. Callum gets his goal tonight but there are others who need to chip in a little bit more to add goals to that team but it’s not a huge concern.”

Next up for the Magpies will be a trip to Bournemouth on Saturday (February 11) for their next Premier League fixture. After dropping below Manchester United at the weekend, with the Red Devils beating Crystal Palace 2-1 at Old Trafford, they are currently fourth in the table and four points ahead of fifth place Spurs - who face Manchester City in North London later today.