Inside Matthias Jaissle’s crunch Newcastle United player meeting after St James’ Park boos
Newcastle United are aiming to bounce back against Crystal Palace after consecutive Premier League defeats.
Matthias Jaissle reportedly held talks with senior players regarding his “vertical football” style following Newcastle United’s defeat to Aston Villa.
Boos echoed around St James’ Park as the Magpies failed to deliver a reaction to the 4-1 loss to Coventry City five days earlier. Just one shot on target coupled with defensive frailties left Newcastle fans feeling concerned about the season ahead.
While never a fair barometer of supporter opinion, there were faint calls on social media for Jaissle - appointed in August - to lose his job. It is understood that Toon chiefs remain resolute in their support for the German as he steers the club through a transitional season.
Newcastle were 11th before the Coventry setback and have not budged in the table despite consecutive losses. A trip to Crystal Palace - who have conceded the most goals in the Premier League this season - provides an opportunity for the Magpies to get back on track.
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Matthias Jaissle summons Newcastle United meeting
According to the i, Jaissle summoned a meeting with senior players in the Toon squad after the Villa game. He wanted to assess whether the players are taking on board his style of play.
Fans have questioned several tactical decisions in recent games. While bringing Dan Burn on as a striker for the final few minutes on Saturday was jarring, posts online have noted the 3-1-6 system that sees Nico Gonzalez act as a third centre-back, with most of his Newcastle team on the opposition backline as he punts a ball forward.
It is suggested that the squad are “100 per cent committed” to Jaissle’s philosophy. But there is an acceptance from the Toon boss that his tactics may need to be refined rather than revamped.
Jaissle also met CEO David Hopkinson on Monday to dissect a difficult week following the international break. Newcastle are a million miles from hitting the panic button just seven games into the Premier League season.
Joelinton backs Matthias Jaissle
Joelinton was directly asked about Jaissle’s tactics after the Villa defeat. Backing his manager, he responded: “I don't think it's different (to) the way we played with Eddie (Howe). Today we played sometimes with Nico (Gonzalez) dropping in a back three. But when he was forward, we played a 4-3-3.
“It's just when we defend, we go to a 4-4-2. You have to ask the manager. He's talked a lot about his principles and the way he wants to play. That's most important, it's not just the formation.
“He's (Jaissle) like everyone, disappointed. He wants to win, he's a winner. We did better than last time. Last time (against Coventry) was not enough. We did a step forward in terms of the way we play. But yes, it's still room for improvement. We need to work hard to, be better and we will do that.”
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