Struggles with Playing Out from the Back
Newcastle United’s struggles this season, particularly with playing out from the back, are beginning to highlight why manager Eddie Howe was so keen to bring in both Marc Guehi and James Trafford during the summer transfer window. While players like Dan Burn and Nick Pope have strong attributes, their passing ability has come under scrutiny as Howe seeks to take Newcastle to the next level by implementing a more progressive style of play. Burn, a solid leader and presence at set-pieces, and Pope, an outstanding shot-stopper, are integral to the team. However, their struggles with building from the back are evident.
Eddie Howe said “I see the benefits of it and we will do that. I’ve got no issue with necessarily that principle—being really expansive and building with your goalkeeper and that style. It’s just when we’re doing it, we’re doing it not with the view to having 10 passes in our penalty box. [We’re doing it] With the view of progressing quickly up the pitch. My personal view is that if we can get up the pitch in one or two passes, let’s do that, rather than having five or six.”
Recent Tactical Adjustments
In recent matches, Howe has switched Newcastle’s shape to a 3-2-5 when they have possession. Right-back players like Tino Livramento or Kieran Trippier invert into midfield, leaving a flat back three. However, teams like Fulham have exploited this tactic, pressing high up the pitch, making it difficult for Newcastle to play out effectively. The team’s struggles in playing out from the back have been highlighted by sideways passes between Livramento, Fabian Schar, and Burn, who have struggled to penetrate midfield.
Burn, in particular, had opportunities to carry the ball forward but instead opted for shorter passes, limiting Newcastle’s ability to progress. Schar, on the other hand, has been more effective in these situations.
Statistics:
•Nick Pope has attempted only 110 passes this season, ranking low among Premier League goalkeepers. His average pass length is 36.8 yards, and 53% of his goal-kicks travel more than 40 yards.
•Burn has attempted 267 passes with a high success rate (91% short passes, 97% medium passes), while Schar has attempted 152 passes but missed several games due to suspension.
The Importance of Trafford and Guehi
Newcastle’s summer pursuits of James Trafford and Marc Guehi make more sense in light of their current struggles. Trafford, despite an underwhelming debut at Burnley, gained recognition during the U21 Euros with his shot-stopping ability and proficiency in playing out from the back, honed in Manchester City’s academy.
James Trafford said “Bolton play a way that suits me, playing out from the back and playing high. It’s been the perfect match really.
Guehi, known for his passing ability, would have offered a solution for Newcastle’s build-up play. Although he isn’t as dominant in the air as Burn, his range of passing would have complemented Schar’s diagonal switches, giving Newcastle a more dynamic presence in defense.
