
Three decisions Eddie Howe got absolutely right for Newcastle against Union Saint-Galloise
Newcastle United returned to winning ways with a 4-0 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.
Eddie Howe and his men travelled to Belgium, and after an injury update on Tino Livramento, they did so without the talented fullback. He suffered a painful knee injury in the emotionally draining defeat to Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday (28 September).
Keith Hackett slammed Howard Webb after the PGMOL chief suggested Jarred Gillett’s decision to overturn a penalty for Viktor Gyokeres against Arsenal, but, ultimately, the Gunners didn’t need the spot kick to beat the Magpies, scoring two late goals to win 2-1.

Front three of Elanga, Woltemade and Gordon
While some journalists and fans called for Howe to rest a couple of his star attackers, the English manager made the right decision to start all three of Anthony Elanga, Nick Woltemade and Anthony Gordon.
It might have been overkill, but this early in the season, with both Elanga and Woltemade new to the Newcastle squad, it’s vital they develop a strong relationship as soon as possible.
The transfer of Alexander Isak to Liverpool may have depleted Newcastle of some of its star quality, but this front three is good enough to challenge most other clubs in the Premier League.
It was a glittering attacking display with Woltemade scoring via a flick between his legs and two penalties from Gordon. Harvey Barnes added a fourth in the 80th minute, which will give the Englishman the confidence he needs to challenge for a spot in the starting lineup.
Dan Burn at left back will be a regular occurrence since Tino Livramento’s injury
Despite not having the best game, Dan Burn needs to get used to playing at left-back for the foreseeable future after Livramento’s knee injury against Arsenal.
The tall centre-back is not unaccustomed to playing out wide in defence, but it has been a while since he’s been needed at left-back.
Given that Union Saint-Gilloise isn’t the highest level opposition that Newcastle United will face this season, it was the right time to throw him back in at left-back.
Newcastle can also use Lewis Hall at left-back, but Howe has shown a tendency in the past to use Burn over the 21-year-old.
Taking Joelinton off after 58 minutes
Not only was Joelinton poor against Saint-Gilloise, but the Brazilian already has a fair number of minutes under his belt this season, and the extra rest ahead of Nottingham Forest at the weekend will serve him well.
Joelinton has become an essential member of Howe’s starting lineup and needs to keep him fit after a poor start to the Premier League season.
Against Saint-Gilloise, Joelinton was arguably the worst player on the pitch for Newcastle and was shown his customary yellow card.
Minutes played | 58 |
Touches | 35 |
Possession lost | 5 |
Dribbled past | 2 |
Ground duels (won) | 3 (0) |
Aerial duels (won) | 6 (2) |
Fouls | 2 |
Tackles | 0 |
Accurate passes | 26/31 (84%) |
Howe will be glad that his side is back to winning ways after one win in four of Newcastle’s previous games and will feel confident ahead of Nottingham Forest’s trip to St. James’ Park on Sunday.