A lot went wrong for Newcastle United on Wednesday night, and one issue should send a clear message to Eddie Howe.
The Magpies made too many mistakes as they lost 3-2 to Manchester United, despite going into the game as favourites. The Red Devils were there for the taking, yet Eddie Howe‘s side managed to hand them all three points.
There is so much to dissect from a frustrating 90 minutes, such as Anthony Gordon not being awarded a penalty or Martin Dubravka’s latest disappointing display.
Fans have also asked questions about Howe’s team selection, with Joelinton only starting on the bench. But the Newcastle boss has stood by that decision, insisting that the Brazil international is still not fit enough to start.
At least he was fit enough to be a substitute, which is more than can be said for Callum Wilson.
Newcastle United were without Callum Wilson against Manchester United
Like so often this season, Newcastle went into a game with just one recognised striker. There was hope that Wilson would be back at Old Trafford after missing the draw with Brighton, but he was nowhere to be seen when the squad was released.
Fortunately, Alexander Isak was involved, having also been a doubt for the game. Like Wilson, Isak had been suffering from illness, but was deemed ready to be involved against the Red Devils.
The 24-year-old played the full 90 minutes, but had a night to forget. Just like against Brighton, Isak was well off the pace. It was clear that he was struggling, squandering multiple good opportunities to hurt a frail Manchester United defence.
A fully fit Isak would have relished playing against Jonny Evans and Casemiro. But he was not fully fit, meaning he was unable to exploit their frailties.
Sadly for Howe, he did not have any other option but to go with the under the weather Isak. Once again, Newcastle could not rely on Wilson to be available, and that is why he needs to be replaced.
Howe and Newcastle owners disagree over Callum Wilson
Fans have been debating Callum Wilson’s Newcastle future as of late. His fitness issues have continued to be a major problem this season, and many believe that the time has come for the club to cut its losses. After all, he is 32-years-old and his contract expires next year.
That is a view shared by the hierarchy, who are ready to cash in on the Magpies’ number nine.
But that is not what Eddie Howe wants. The manager has spoke openly about wanting to keep Wilson, and has made it clear that signing a replacement would be very expensive.
While that is true, Newcastle need to make a change. It will be expensive to sign a striker who is as good as Wilson, but his lack of availability is crippling us. That game against Man United could have been very different if Howe had been able to bring on another striker. We created enough chances, but Isak was unable to take advantage.
And neither was Wilson, due to the fact he was absent for the 25th time this season.
Newcastle must sign a better backup for Alexander Isak
It simply is not viable to retain a backup striker who is so unreliable, and it will be even more vital that Newcastle have a secondary forward if they qualify for Europe.
Isak is not capable of playing every single minute, and he needs support. That is the only way we are going to get even more out of the Sweden international.
Wilson is not capable of offering that support, and that is why the £20million man should be moved on. It would be a ruthless decision that Howe might not agree with, but it is necessary.
Newcastle need to evolve and level up, and that means putting sentiment to one side. Wilson has been a great player for the Magpies over the years, but the time has come for him to go.
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