Eddie Howe at serious risk of Newcastle sack after meltdown
Eddie Howe is at serious risk of the sack at Newcastle if he cannot solve their terrible second-half meltdowns.
The Magpies failed to hold onto their 2-0 lead as the Blues staged a comeback to rescue a draw at St. James’ Park.
While the referee and VAR had some controversial moments that went against Newcastle, it was another two points dropped, which could be crucial in their race for European football next season.
Eddie Howe was already under pressure at Newcastle going into the game, and now the sack could be inevitable if some serious problems are not fixed.
Newcastle have fourth-worst second-half record in Premier League this season
According to FootyStats on 20 December, Newcastle have the fourth-worst second-half record in the Premier League this season.
To date, in the 17 matches Howe has overseen, he has only won two matches in the second period, while drawing nine and losing six.
This has seen the Magpies ship 17 goals, while only scoring 11.
- Newcastle have lost the most points in winning positions compared to any other side in the Premier League this season
- The latest occurrence came against Chelsea on Saturday
- Howe has now remained under pressure after failing to pick up a win
The only clubs to have a worse record are relegation strugglers Wolves and Leeds United, as well as Manchester United.
In comparison, Newcastle have a wonderful first-half record, winning seven of 17, while only conceding four times.
Given this, it is clear that Howe needs to oversee some tactical changes at half-time to ensure that the Magpies do not continue to fall off.
If not, the manager could soon find himself booted out of St. James’ Park, with a disappointing bottom-half finish looking more likely than European qualification at present.
What did Howe say after Newcastle’s draw with Chelsea?
Howe was understandably devasted that Newcastle were not able to hold onto their lead against Chelsea.
The former Bournemouth manager was quick to praise the performance in the first half which led to the Magpies taking a 2-0 lead at the break.
He told BBC Sport on 20 December: “Difficult because we played so well today. An outstanding performance, especially in the first half. Devastated for the lads that we didn’t get the win.
“[The first half] was a reminder of how good we can be. Athletically so good, and the press was excellent for us too, and we were a real threat. It’s further evidence that we are improving. We need more of that.”