EDDIE Howe feels that more squad depth will benefit Newcastle United in the coming weeks, following the return of some key players who have improved the head coach’s choices.
Howe has been down to the bare bones in recent months, and in numerous games has been obliged to designate a bench that includes more than one goalkeeper and several untested teenagers.
However, the picture is improving for Howe, who was able to turn to his bench and insert game changers in the midweek FA Cup triumph against Blackburn Rovers.
Elliot Anderson returned from a lengthy layoff to score in the shootout, and Joe Willock’s availability allowed Howe to give Lewis Miley a much-needed break.
Alexander Isak is also back to full fitness, Harvey Barnes has recently returned to action, and Matt Targett is on the verge of returning to the matchday squad after missing more than three months due to hamstring injuries.
Howe’s hand has been forced for much of this season, but he will have the opportunity to tinker and, perhaps, alter games from the bench in the coming weeks as Newcastle aim to go on a winning streak in the Premier League and prepare for their FA Cup quarter-final clash against Manchester City.
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“That’s not lost on me; it’s never been lost on me,” Newcastle’s head coach stated.
“You need the right tools to win games. Elliot was a late decision (at Blackburn), and while we could use him if necessary, I didn’t want to employ him for more than 10 minutes.
“Even though he was available, I was always going to trust him with a penalty.” Who knows how important having him available is, and this spreads across the squad.
“I was able to pull Joe Willock off early because I had excellent players to come on, and looking after him and Alex is critical because we need them both to be fit.
“They’re both getting their fitness and sharpness in games which isn’t ideal, but that’s where we’ve been all season.”
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