Michael Owen fears “inconsistency” could come back to bite Steve Bruce this season – believing we “should be fine” but won’t finish any higher than mid-table as a result.
Sadly, this line sums up why apathy has taken over for so many on Tyneside, with us having the potential to do more than just survive with this group of players.
Owen has also releases his prediction for Saturday’s early kick-off and is backing Frank Lampard’s blues to come away with a narrow 1-2 win at St James’ Park.
Here’s what he’s had to say during his latest piece for Bet Victor:
‘Newcastle appear very inconsistent just now. I was covering their game against Southampton and it was clear that they couldn’t get into any rhythm. It will be interesting to see if Callum Wilson can shake-off the hamstring injury that he picked up in that game. He’s been excellent in front of goal for the Magpies, so far.
‘I think in terms of the whole season, Newcastle should be fine, but their inconsistency could cost them dearly over the course of a season and as I can only see them finishing around mid-table.
‘I originally said I fancied Chelsea to finish 3rd, however, I think that the points total will be lower this year, and that could bring the Blues right into the title mix.
‘If they are to achieve that, then they will have to take maximum points from matches such as this. With Timo Werner in such good form, I think he could be amongst the goals in a Chelsea victory.‘
Prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Chelsea
Although he’s expecting a close game – especially if the ‘excellent’ Callum Wilson passes a late fitness test – he’s backing German star Timo Werner to be in the goals again this weekend.
As for the ‘inconsistency’ issue, I feel it’s time Steve Bruce looked himself in the mirror. He blamed his players for simple mistakes against Southampton, but how does he expect his team to perform week in, week out if he changes formations most weeks, is yet to know his best team or how he wants them to play?!
Yes, several individual performances weren’t nearly good enough at St Mary’s and need to respond, however the onus is also on Steve Bruce now – a manager who is currently holding back a what is a talented group of players.
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