
Sven Botman was sent for an immediate running session in the direct aftermath of Newcastle United’s 2-1 defeat at home to Fulham.
Head coach Eddie Howe’s fitness staff wasted no time in starting preparations for the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Arsenal long before the narrow reverse against the Cottagers had been digested. Also involved in a rigorous running session with head of fitness Dan Hodges was Kieran Trippier and Sean Longstaff.
Howe admitted after a recent game against AFC Bournemouth, which ended in a 4-1 defeat, that he rued not making changes four days after a game against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Howe said then he would not “beat himself up” about the decision but he must now be contemplating a shake up.
Botman’s coolness in the first leg was key against the Gunners and he has now sat out two matches. It was a justified move at Southampton, but Newcastle looked static in the final half hour as Fulham were allowed to push on and win the game.
The Dutchman may well feel the time is now to stake his claim and knock on Howe’s door if he hasn’t already. Howe made reference to Trippier’s contributions after the defeat to Fulham and he could well lean on his experience on Wednesday.
With Joelinton injured and Joe Willock not making an impression what price a recall for Sean Longstaff. Longstaff was the hero against Southampton two years ago with the brace that sent Newcastle to Wembley.
Howe helpless to move into transfer market
The head coach was questioned about the squad going stale straight after Saturday night’s defeat. With the window still open until Monday night the door is indeed open to sign players.
But Howe has effectively pulled down the shutters for business already. Could the Magpies wheel and deal to make something happen?
Howe said: “There’s nothing we can do. The window will be what it is and results won’t change that.
“I don’t think staleness is an issue, I don’t feel that at all. I always judge the training ground as the measurement – the result usually comes from what you see day to day. I don’t see an issue with the internal culture or dynamic. I think everything is okay.
“That’s why I’d need to analyse the game properly before giving my assessment of it.”
Why keeping the mood right is vital
Howe made no excuses after the Fulham loss and then insisted that Newcastle have a huge game just around the corner on Wednesday.
This could be quickly forgotten if Newcastle book their place in the March final showpiece of the Carabao Cup at Wembley and they are 2-0 up to boot. Howe said: “I think the whole atmosphere and feeling will be very different on Wednesday night but it’s another reminder that we need to be near our best to win games and it’s another example of the quality of Premier League teams.”
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