Paul Merson has delivered a mixed assessment of Eddie Howe’s appointment ahead of today’s game at The AMEX stadium.
He ‘likes’ Howe as a manager, but doesn’t think it ‘whets the appetite’ of Newcastle fans – suggesting he’s not seen the positive response to his seemingly imminent appointment on social media.
The Sky Sports pundit feels he won’t ‘rock the boat’ with the players at his disposal and fears we’re in ‘major trouble’, backing us to be well beaten 3-0 by Brighton in tonight’s 5.30pm kick off.
He reckons we’ll ‘set up defensively’ – something we’ve done in both of Jones’ games in charge – but believes Graham Potter’s side will be able to break us down easily to come away comfortable winners.
Speaking to Sportskeeda, here’s what Merson’s had to say:
“Newcastle are in major trouble at the moment.
“They’re going to set up defensively this weekend but Brighton have quality all over the pitch and should be able to break them down easily.
“Newcastle don’t have a manager going into this game and I don’t think anyone wants the job either.
“Eddie Howe is evidently going to become the club’s manager this month but I don’t think that whets the appetite of the Newcastle fanbase.
“I like Eddie Howe as a manager.
“But I’m not sure he’s going to rock the boat with the players at his disposal.
“One of these clubs is a proper team and one isn’t at the moment.
“I think Brighton should win this Premier League game comfortably.
“Prediction: Brighton 3 Newcastle 0.”
I’d disagree with his claims that no one wants the job, however there are definitely some who have been quick to rule themselves out – whether that be due to the lack of infrastructure currently in place to help us kick on or the fact we’re 19th and in serious danger of going down.
I think what Mers is seeing is the vast majority of NUFC fans not taking to social media til the appointment is confirmed – lessons learned from Emery.
Once it’s announced I think he’ll find the majority of fans will be satisfied – is there better managers? of course – is there worse? we know there is!!.
I think Howe will immediately improve fitness & give the team a shape where each player knows exactly what their role is.
But there is lots to do with this squad & a really tough run of fixtures leading right up to New Year – so we aren’t expecting miracles.
Close the gap between now and then, then get some new faces in January and attack the second half of the season – I’m confident he keeps us up this season.
Sharpy17(Quote)