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.
5. LB - Lewis Hall
Newcastle's long-term option at left-back. Was one of the better performers at Sunderland. | Getty Images
6. RM - Jacob Murphy
Carrying a knock but remains available for selection. Murphy provides a far better outlet than Anthony Elanga right now. | AFP via Getty Images
7. CM - Sandro Tonali
Tonali started the season well but has faded in recent weeks. Has the midfielder's form nosedived since being ambiguous over his Newcastle future. | Getty Images
8. CM - Bruno Guimaraes
The skipper did a lot of talking to NewcastleWorld after the derby defeat. It is now time for him to back up thos words with actions. | Getty Images