‘It’s been a good season’ - Delusion as Newcastle United insider loses touch with reality
Newcastle United sit 14th in the Premier League after losing 1-0 to Arsenal at the weekend.
Shola Ameobi believes Newcastle United have enjoyed “a good season” due to their Champions League efforts.
Despite sitting 14th in the Premier League, losing both Tyne-Wear derbies and almost certainly missing out on European qualification, the former Toon ace preferred to outline the positives. Ameobi still works for Newcastle as Loan Coordinator, the go-between for youngsters honing their skills elsewhere.
The pressure has piled on Eddie Howe due to Newcastle’s dismal form in recent weeks. Five consecutive losses across all competitions has resulted in the season petering to its conclusion.
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Shola Ameobi makes bizarre claim
Speaking to Flashscore, former Toon striker Ameobi reminded fans that they cannot expect to “win” each season. He also pointed towards the injury record and fixture congestion as factors behind Newcastle’s struggles.
However, what will perhaps concern fans more, given Ameobi’s role at the club, is how he thinks the Magpies can claim a successful campaign. He said: "Nothing's changed. Ultimately, you can't win every season. Every competition is difficult to continue to win in. Everyone's getting better around you.
“Ultimately, we've been in a lot of competitions this year, Champions League, travelling, all those things affect the team. Obviously, injuries as well have a big impact. On paper, it might not look like we're where we want to be but, ultimately, it's been a good season.
“(We finished the) furthest we've ever finished in Europe, which is a massive achievement. There's still some games left, so let's see where the team finishes at the end of the season."
Eddie Howe on ‘big’ changes
Howe alluded to seismic changes taking place at St James’ Park this summer ahead of the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal. He told reporters: "We're always looking at the team and trying to make assessments and judgments for the future.
"If the team's not performing, then potentially there may be bigger changes in the summer than maybe previously first thought. I think you have to react to what you see, and that goes on a weekly basis, a daily basis, behind the scenes in terms of attitude, commitment to the team. And I think the players expect that."
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