Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has defended Newcastle duo Chris Wood and Jacob Murphy, believing both have been effective in recent weeks.
Despite no goals so far, Howe believes Wood has been ‘outstanding’ since his arrival for £25 million in January – saying he does a lot of dirty work that goes unnoticed and has a ‘dramatic effect on the team.’
Wood has offered a physical presence up front, worked hard and held up the ball to allow players like Allan Saint-Maximin, Ryan Fraser and Jacob Murphy to make runs off the ball.
While fans will always demand goals, performances have definitely improved since the arrival of the Kiwi – who is yet to lose a game since signing.
Following the 2-1 victory against Brighton, fans have been frustrated with Jacob Murphy, who probably could’ve had a brace with his first effort hitting the post – turned in by Fraser – and a second hit straight at the goalkeeper.
However, Howe believes he is ‘physically excellent’, tactically smart, good defensively and a threat in transition – hailing his ability to burst in behind as he did for our opener last weekend.
Howe on Chris Wood:
“I think he’s been outstanding since he’s arrived.
“He does a lot of things people don’t necessarily see but he’s had a dramatic effect on the team.
“He’s given us the ability to retain the ball from loads of different situations.”
Howe on Jacob Murphy:
“He’s a very good player.
“He’s physically excellent and I think you can see that from the first goal [against Brighton] he created and the pace he gives you in transition.
“He’s reliable defensively and tactically good. There’s a lot to like about him.”
