Eddie Howe arrived at Newcastle United and gave the team intensity as their identity. His tried and trusted 4-3-3, with pace, pressing and a willingness to use football’s dark arts, made the Magpies unlikable to the outside world.
“We’re not here to be popular, we are here to compete” was the phrase Howe coined that resonated so deeply with the black-and-white faithful. Two Champions League qualifications and a Carabao Cup put his words into action.
However, this season, a weak Newcastle have reneged on everything that made them great. United look lethargic and limp. Zero fight shown against bitter rivals Sunderland has left St James’ Park exposed ahead of tonight’s carabao Cup quarter-final - another defeat and things could turn ugly.
It is time to shake up the system that has taken Howe to this point. NewcastleWorld has profiled a fresh 4-4-2 setup - a similar formation to what the Toon boss used at Bournemouth - to get the Magpies firing.
1. GK - Nick Pope
Has been nursing a groin injury but is due back soon. Neither Pope or Aaron Ramsdale have nailed the goalkeeping spot down this season. | Getty Images
2. RB - Tino Livramento of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James' Park on September 13, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Not Livramento's finest hour at Sunderland. That aside, the right-back spot is firmly his to lose. | Getty Images
3. CB - Malick Thiaw
The only Newcastle summer signing who has been a resounding hit. Thiaw looks a real steal for £30million. | Getty Images
4. CB - Fabian Schar
The Swiss defender has not been happy with his limited game time. He will get a chance to prove Eddie Howe wrong due to the recent injury outbreak. | Getty Images