Pundit can’t believe Romano’s update on Newcastle pursuit of Lingard
Noel Whelan has insisted the faltering Newcastle defence must be Eddie Howe’s priority in next month’s transfer window.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 44-year-old Magpies boss must shift focus from targeting attackers until the backline is addressed.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported last Friday (10 December) that Jesse Lingard is the latest target for Newcastle, who have initiated contact with his representatives ahead of the winter window.
The Magpies’ defensive woes deepened on Sunday when they fell 4-0 away at Leicester.
The 19th-place side have conceded the joint-most top-flight goals this season (34) – sharing the accolade with basement club Norwich.
Whelan insisted the shortcomings in defence are Howe’s “biggest problem” at present.
“First and foremost, in January, they have got to address that backline,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“If you look at their front three, it’s not bad. Their midfield can create. Put that on hold for now.
“The biggest problem for them is the defence. Unless they rectify the two centre-halves and bring players in, it doesn’t matter who you bring in up the field – because you’ll be fighting against the result every time.
“They’ve got to sort it out. It should be the first thing Eddie Howe looks at.
“It’s clear to see every time you watch Newcastle. You can see where the mistakes are – and it all comes from the players in that defence.”
Newcastle face free-scoring Liverpool away from home tomorrow.
The Magpies are three points from safety after 16 games.
In other news, Newcastle open talks to sign another England international as player’s stance revealed.