Newcastle ran riot at St James’ Park on Saturday as they hammered big-spending Chelsea 4-1.
It was a huge win for Newcastle with it being clear that the players are willing to go above and beyond for the football club amidst their current injury crisis.
Energy reserves were never-ending from Eddie Howe’s players as they ran through brick walls to ensure they came away with the three points against Mauricio Pochettino’s disjointed Chelsea side.
The injury crisis in the Northeast is so severe that the Newcastle bench consisted of three goalkeepers and youngsters Amadou Diallo, Alex Murphy, Michael Ndiweni and Ben Parkinson.
11 senior players are currently injured but you wouldn’t be able to guess considering the level of intensity Howe’s side approached this game with.
With 11 senior players currently out injured, the question will be raised as to whether or not Newcastle are suffering from bad luck or are just struggling with juggling the strain of European football. Performances like this though will dispel any worry of shortfalls within their squad.
Despite taking the lead through the returning Alexander Isak, Raheem Sterling equalised thanks to a well-hit freekick. That did not deter the Magpies though as they continued to attack in the second half.
Jamaal Lascelles scored a rare goal, putting them back in front before Joelinton and Anthony Gordon wrapped the game up.
Should Anthony Gordon be in England contention?
It was a surprise to see that Gordon wasn’t closer to a full England call up over the international break and his form in this game will serve as a further reminder for Gareth Southgate.
His cross provided Joelinton with the third goal before he scored the afternoon’s final goal making sure any raised eyebrows when he originally signed were back to their normal, relaxed level.
It was a mature, high-intensity display from the entire team with LAscelles and Shar at their usual solid best at St James’ Park. Lewis Miley impressed in central midfield giving Howe a potential headache once his first-team players return from injury.
