Steve Bruce on the Newcastle United system switch which 'suits' his Magpies squad
Against Manchester City, Liverpool and Leicester City over the festive period United went with a five-man backline – and it certainly produced improved defensive performances, with the Magpies recording a goal difference of -3 from the trio out outings. Many fans had feared much worse, so poor was United’s form going into that run of games.
Bruce admits he has been pleased with the way the system has worked, although when asked about the formation, he refused to confirm whether it was here to stay.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“I think against the bigger teams in the division it suits us,” said Bruce, whose side take on Arsenal in the FA Cup third round on Saturday evening.
“It keeps us in the game. But we have to improve in the final third.
“And that's something which is vital. We need to take care of the ball and add that bit of quality.
“We will keep working on it.”
Callum Wilson cutting an isolated figure is become an increasingly frequent sight in the United frontline – and that’s probably a negative in relation to the 5-4-1 (3-4-3 with the ball in the opposition half) formation.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdBruce accepts this is a department United must improve upon as they work their way through 2021.
“That's what we're trying to do, get higher up the pitch,” he said.
“Attacking-wise we have to hold on to the ball better in the final third.
“We gave it away, we gave it away for the goal, we give it away too cheaply, too often.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“That is something we have to improve on. We have to be better. But we know that is the hard part - that's where you look for that little extra bit of quality but we didn't see it.”
After Saturday’s trip to the Emirates, Newcastle United travel to Bramall Lane on Tuesday to take on Sheffield United, who sit bottom of the Premier League, without a win this season.