Newcastle had to show resilience to secure a draw after trailing 4-2 against the recently promoted team last weekend. Criticism has been directed at Howe for his selection decisions. Nevin, in his BBC Sport article, argued that Dan Burn should have been substituted much earlier, implying that Howe will learn from this experience moving forward.
Howe is likely to gain valuable insights from his recent errors at Newcastle.
The 46-year-old manager has faced significant backlash, with some fans feeling he’s showing favoritism towards players from last season rather than considering those who might be better suited. Burn’s vulnerabilities at left-back are well-known, particularly against speedy wingers who frequently target Newcastle’s defense on that side.
In the match against Aston Villa, Burn initially performed decently until Leon Bailey’s introduction, exposing his limitations against pace. The same scenario unfolded with Chiedozie Ogbene from Luton Town. Despite this, Howe only replaced Burn with Tino Livramento, a more dynamic and attacking full-back, after Newcastle found themselves trailing 4-2 due to Burn’s errors leading to a penalty and a midfield turnover resulting in a goal.
Reflecting on Howe’s choices, Nevin commented, “I witnessed the high-scoring spectacle between Newcastle and Luton Town firsthand. Once again, left-back Dan Burn encountered difficulties. The pattern repeated itself from the Aston Villa match earlier in the week, where Burn struggled against the pace of both Leon Bailey and Chiedozie Ogbene.”
“Eddie Howe recognized the threat early on at Villa and adjusted the system by bringing on Tino Livramento to avoid isolating his vulnerable full-back. Despite this proactive move, it took him 10 minutes to act, resulting in conceding a goal, although the game was ultimately secured with a 3-1 lead, and Newcastle held on.
I had anticipated a halftime adjustment, but it didn’t materialize. By the time Burn was substituted, prompted by the home crowd’s pleas, Newcastle had conceded two more goals from the left flank, turning a 2-2 draw into a 2-4 deficit. Why the delay? Howe, a seasoned coach, surely recognized the issue.
Could it have been a rare display of sympathy? Substituting the long-serving club stalwart Burn might have been perceived as embarrassing for him, and like many, I admire the honest defender. However, sentiment has no place in elite competition, and I doubt Howe will hesitate to make such decisions in the future. In any case, leaving Burn out there to struggle didn’t benefit anyone.”
Livramento should be starting for Newcastle from now on.
Burn has undoubtedly been an outstanding contributor to Newcastle and Howe’s efforts over the past two years since his £13 million move from Brighton. His role in helping his childhood club reach a cup final and qualify for the Champions League for the first time in two decades is commendable.
However, as Nevin rightly points out, sentiment has no place in football. Many fans recognize that Livramento would likely provide superior defensive capabilities on the left flank while also offering attacking impetus.
This isn’t to diminish Burn’s contributions; his leadership, experience, and aerial prowess are valuable assets to the team. Yet, opponents consistently exploit his lack of pace, highlighting the need for a change.
The upcoming match against Nottingham Forest will be telling. It will reveal whether Howe remains steadfast in his approach or if he’s willing to give Livramento a chance, especially considering the 21-year-old’s impressive displays in crucial matches this season.
