Attacker needs to be sold: Three things we learned about Newcastle from draw v QPR
By Amir Mir
Football Insider analyses the three talking points after Newcastle draw 2-2 against QPR at St James’ Park on Wednesday night.
Ayoze Perez needs to be sold
The Spaniard is simply not good enough and in truth does not provide the attacking threat that he should. In the first half, much like his attacking teammates, Perez was anonymous and very quiet. The 23-year-old does not do enough to get on the ball which simply stalls his side in the attacking third. Additionally, his decision making needs to be questioned. Perez was through on goal with less than 20 minutes to go on the clock and the score at 2-1. He decided to shoot straight at QPR keeper Alex Smithies, rather than cut the ball back to Matt Ritchie, who had an open goal. These could prove to become costly mistakes in bigger games and in truth, the attacker should be sold.
Jonjo Shelvey is the best player in the Championship
The Newcastle midfielder is such an inspirational figure for Rafa Benitez’ side and the tactics from opposition teams is one example of that. Ian Hollaway’s team had a clear plan in stopping the playmaker in dictating play in the middle of the park. However, he still managed to show his range of passing, even though he would be disappointed at losing possession on a number of occasions. Furthermore, the former Premier League player did ever so well in opening the scoring for the home team when his controlled shot found the pack of the net in the first minute. One thing Shelvey has shown this season is that he is the best player in the Championship.
Home form crucial to finishing top
It was not a standout performance from Rafa Benitez’ side at St James’ Park and in truth, they will be bitterly disappointed in dropping more points. They could have gone top of the table and their performance at home has cost them that chance. Furthermore, this season there have been a number of nervy performances at home from the north east club and that will need to change if they are to top the table. If Benitez can make them more dominant in front of their own fans and match their away form, then there is no doubt that they can beat Chris Hughton’s side to first place.
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