Under Steve Bruce, Magpies fans have become used to seeing their side averaging low possession, which became increasingly noticeable during the club’s 11-match winless streak this term.
However in recent weeks, just as assistant coach Graeme Jones arrived, Newcastle seem to be playing more of the frontfoot as they aim to steer away from the relegation picture.
Courtesy of data from scouting experts Wyscout, we’ve looked at each top-flight club’s possession stats, ranking them in order to form a ‘possession table’.
United’s position is woeful – but also not surprising given how the season has panned out so far:
5. 5th - Southampton - 54.8%
Ralph Hasenhuttl has progressed the Saints into more of a possession-based side this season alongside their relentless pressing. Photo: NAOMI BAKER
6. 6th - Manchester United - 54.5%
At a team like Manchester United, there is an expectation to dictate play but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team have proven to be just as threatening on the counter-attack. Photo: PHIL NOBLE
7. 7th - Arsenal - 53%
The ‘Arsenal Way’ has historically centred around possession but that has become less frequent during a difficult season for Mikel Arteta’s side. Photo: RUI VIEIRA
8. 8th - Leicester City - 51.9%
Brendan Rodgers, for the second season running, has transformed the Foxes into Champions League contenders. Photo: PETER CZIBORRA