Danny Murphy Points to Newcastle’s Attacking Difficulties

Following Newcastle United’s 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace, a match in which they recorded no shots on target, former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy stated that the Magpies’ offensive players are “really struggling” with goal-scoring this season. While providing his analysis of the game on Match of the Day, Murphy commented: “They are really struggling in the final third. Their football through the lines and out from the back is really good, I agree with Eddie Howe.” He continued, stating: “They are getting themselves in good positions but their quality players, at the top end of the pitch, are really struggling.” Murphy further elaborated: “It’s all about the final pass – it isn’t always about a technical thing. I think it is often a decision-making thing at the top end of the pitch. It’s about when to release the ball and when to pass.” He added: “Some of their deliveries from outside of the box are really poor and lazy. They also get caught with only two players in the box.” Murphy concluded his observations by saying: “We have seen Newcastle be dynamic and score lots of goals, but this is far cry from it. There just feels like there is no-one there – and, when they do get in, it’s about whether they can pick the right pass.” He emphasized: “It is so unlike these players. They have got better quality than that.”