The Magpies are still adjusting to Alexander Isak’s departure as Eddie Howe discusses service
Nick Woltemade of Newcastle United(Image: AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Eddie Howe admits that service to Nick Woltemade is proving to be an issue that must be improved from his Newcastle United supply men. The head coach tried his luck in the first half with Jacob Murphy and Joe Willock either side of the German international before Harvey Barnes and Anthony Elanga fared no better after the break.
Howe, completely unprompted, brought the thorny Alexander Isak subject to the table twice in his post-game Press conference after the stalemate at Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium
When discussing Woltemade’s lack of service, after just two accurate crosses made it into the danger area for United, Howe said: “I think all centre-forwards to a degree rely on the service.
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“Alex wouldn’t have scored a goal for us if we didn’t get up the pitch and get the ball into dangerous areas. I think we have to do that better as a team.
“Of course, he’s a goal-getter. You look at his record last year, it was very, very strong. I don’t think that was a criticism of him today, but more of the team.
“I thought we played well, so it’s a difficult one to instantly critique our attacking work. We got in some good areas in the first half, areas we should have done better.”
Howe had earlier said: “Naturally, we will be a different team without Alex; we will be attacking with a different emphasis.”
READ MORE: ‘It’s not good’ – Eddie Howe makes Alexander Isak and Newcastle United penalty verdict
OPINION
Stuart Jamieson
However, extra fire power is on the way with Anthony Gordon now free from suspension after serving his three-game ban following a red card against Liverpool.
But Howe said his midfielders must also start chipping in with assists or at least goal threats, Howe said: “It’s one place (the wide area) to look.
“I think our midfield has to contribute as well. I think you’re only as good as your defenders as well, so I think it’s a knock-on through the team. Whenever you go through a period where you don’t score, I think you have to look at all areas.
“I don’t think you can limit it to the wingers, but of course, those players have to be productive, and I think they always have been historically for us. So we’ll be pleased Anthony’s suspension is now done, he’s a massive player.”
Howe also has Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey still to come back from injuries although that is further down the line in October.
Howe said: “Yoane, we’re waiting to bring him back in, so JJ’s injured as well.
“There’s a couple of players there or three players there that can make a big difference to our collective strength.”
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