Pundits slam Newcastle United takeover talk and ‘scared’ defender - while defending ‘really good’ Mike Ashley
Steve Bruce’s reign at St James’s Park kicked-off with a disappointing reverse against the Gunners, with pundits quick to offer their take on the game, Newcastle’s summer signings and the ongoing uncertainty over the club’s ownership.
Scroll down and click through the pages and see who said what about the Premier League opener:
1. Alan Shearer gives his take on Newcastle's new number nine
"From a Newcastle perspective; they need £40million centre- forward Joelinton to hit the ground running and score as quickly as possible. But, especially in the first half, he and Miguel Almiron played too far apart from each other and weren’t effective. They had one or two neat touches and Joelinton was unlucky with an effort in the first half.” Photo: Stu Forster
2. Richard Keys couldn't resist offering his views...
“The owner here doesn’t share my ambition (so I’m off to China for £12m/year)’ Rafa Benitez. I couldn’t be more proud to manage this club. It’s my club. It was my Dad’s club’ Steve Bruce. I hope the Toon Army eventually works it out. Get behind your team guys.” Photo: Laurence Griffiths
3. Jermaine Jenas believes that one Newcastle man looked 'scared'
“These are the problems that Lascelles found himself in. He wanted to get close to Aubameyang but he’s scared about the run in behind. He gives him a little bit to say ‘I’m going to go in behind’ and immediately Jamaal Lascelles drops off.“ Photo: Catherine Ivill
4. Some more from Shearer on the takeover uncertainty
“I don’t think anybody realistically expected it to go through. We get this every 18 months, and nobody genuinely believes that it’s going to happen. Something’s only for sale if you have a willing seller.” Photo: Jan Kruger