Manager Eddie Howe has to give summer acquisition William Osula more chances following their lacklustre goal-scoring performance against Everton.
Despite their dominance at Goodison Park, Sean Dyche’s team managed to hold the Magpies to a scoreless draw. James Tarkowski fouled Sandro Tonali in the penalty area, giving Anthony Gordon a chance to score from the spot; the English winger also blasted over after being placed in behind.
Due to injuries to the striker position, Howe used Gordon as a center-forward, demonstrating their lack of attacking firepower. It could be time for Osula to make an appearance because Newcastle has lost their previous two Premier League games without scoring from open play.
Osula Should Start While Isak and Wilson are Out
In Newcastle’s last game before the international break, against Everton, Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak were both out with injuries. The two were absent from the Manchester City match, when Gordon got off to a strong start. Despite only three of their 14 efforts being on target, the Magpies dominated the Toffees.
Newcastle 0-0 Everton Match Statistics
Everton
Statistics
Newcastle
2.
Bullets on Target
10
Six
Bullets missing their target
4
33
Ownership (%)
67
0
Edges
10
12
Mistakes
8
1.
Cards in Yellow
2.
Gordon has played on the flank for the most of his career and is not a natural striker. The England international was dangerous against Everton as well as Man City, but he was unable to strike from open play. In addition, the young player frequently attempted to run in behind rather than to receive the ball to his feet, drifting into wide areas and making Newcastle adjust their game plan.
Osula is a natural center-forward who has been patiently waiting for his chance to shine despite his lack of experience. Only eight Premier League minutes have been played by the former Sheffield United player since the start of the season. He came to St James’ Park for a reported £15 million in the summer.
Howe will have to take a gamble and start Osula if Wilson and Isak are unable to play after the international break. He’s a natural at that position, albeit perhaps not as skilled as Gordon.
Gordon was a quick winger, so it goes without saying that he was constantly slipping past the Everton defenders in search of an over-the-top pass. The England international alternated with Harvey Barnes, who moved into a centre area, and also went out wide to cause issues on the left. Attack-wise, Osula will provide something new by sticking in the midfield and attempting to hold the ball up while drawing players into the game.
Gordon frequently dipped between the lines to get possession of the ball, but this prevented a centre forward from entering the box or retaining the line. Gordon should not be dropped; instead, Howe should play him in his natural position and add a center-forward to see if that is what they need to get things going.
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