Coffee_Johnny

Was that after the amazing double tackle in the box then getting clattered by Rodri? Can’t remember the time off the top of my head, but he was fantastic and that sequence of play deserves more love.

I watched their game yesterday, paying more attention than usual. This could be a really tough game even if, as it seems, we are on the up for wise. Whilst they seem a bit ponderous going forward at times, they are super organised and difficult to break down. I thought Palhinha and Willian (crafty as fuck…) played particularly well.

If we had a 20-20 crystal ball, then you might have a point. No Willock, no Barnes, no Targett, no Tonali, Joelinton , Longstaff, Wilson, Murphy, Burn, and Isak in and out. I’ve no doubt missed absentees. We have by far the most ‘missed days’ and the third best XG in the league. Still made a decent fist of navigating the group of F and tough domestic cup draws. Not much wrong all things considered.

I thought it was a great game to watch. Five wonderful goals. A disallowed first goal. Against the run of play coming back and taking the lead. Almost making it three before half time (how sweet that would have been… although we were 3-1 up against them last season). Knife’s edge finish clinging on for a drawer against the Champions of Europe. I understand the disappointment and worry as the games tick away. Bottom-line is that not many expected us to get anything. And we didn’t. The craft, the tactics and the battle were there for all to see though. Guardiola’s joy and compliments were genuine and for good reason. We are getting back to what we can become. We’re a quarter of the pieces down from a formidable top four side who can give anyone a game, anywhere, anytime. This time next year Rodder’s… .

Chris Schar and Fabian Evans

Nothing, in terms of reasonable preseason expectations, has gone yet. It’s just about probability. If we can put in a run comparable to the second half of Howe’s first season then 4-6th is still within our grasp. It boils down to how likely it is that we will. Form very recently is against it, form/results earlier in the season and players coming back/the squad we have (on paper not recently all on grass!) suggests it is still possible.

Surely it warrants a few ‘tears’. It is frustrating as hell and where better to vent?

Venison and Bracewell immediately spring to mind as excellent signings. Given also qualifies (though was only there briefly/on loan?). More distant past, Jeff Clarke & Pop Robson, I think, qualify/played for them first.

Impressive! Was wondering if I was there. Sad to admit, even if it was Southend I still have no idea whether I was there ?‍♂️

??

Forgotten all about that strip and that goal. But not about Atsu.

Ok here’s my contribution to the rumour mill: Paulo Dybala. 30 year old Roma/Argentina attacking midfielder/winger. https://newcastletoons.com/posts/newcastle-transfer-news-eddie-howe-makes-contact-with-paulo-dybala-amid-11m-bargain-01hkw6001352

Do we have any? Rumours, that is. Howay tinterweb trawlers do your funky thing. We need a tantalising-transfer-titbit!

I think a forward and a midfielder will be the brief if suitable candidates are available and affordable this window. Phillips is obvious and I noticed Solanke’s profile, for example, has him in a range of forward position from attacking midfield to centre forward.

Doubt he sets the scene or has the vital vote on who we pursue. Would like to think no one comes who he doesn’t want, mind, but he won’t be the one responsible for strategy.

Had same thoughts; might help with salary costs as well.

It just gets even better!

Declan Rice amounts.

Gameweek 21 Chelsea 2-1 Fulham Newcastle 2-2 Man City Everton 2-2 Villa Man United 3-2 Spurs Burnley 1-1 Luton Arsenal 2-1 Palace Brentford 1-3 Forest Sheff United 1-0 West Ham Bournemouth 1-2 Liverpool Brighton 1-1 Wolves

You might have had a happier life ?(to date…).

Thanks. Never knew that ?

I’m captaining Gordon, instead of Haaland. Yes. I am doing badly.

Mid season review. My best week was Week 1… why do I keep doing this game?