Alan Shearer has highlighted Newcastle United’s defensive record as the cornerstone for their success this season. Another clean sheet - the Magpies’ fifth in seven games - inspired a shutout victory over Chelsea.
A lot was made by critics about Eddie Howe’s inability to coach a defence when he was appointed one year ago. However, the Toon boss continues to defy the naysayers as United boast the joint-best defensive record in the league.
The controversial, last-gasp defeat to Liverpool in August is the last time Newcastle conceded more than one goal in a game. Nick Pope has eight clean sheets to his name in all competitions, with Howe striking the perfect balance between defence and attack.
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Speaking to Match of the Day, club icon Shearer eulogised Newcastle for their steely backline while praising Howe for the job he is doing on Tyneside. The Magpies’ all-time leading goalscorer said: “So many times this season we’ve spoken about Newcastle scoring great goals, from Wilson or a Guimaraes. But it’s the team, as a whole, why they are so good defensively.
“(They) have the best defensive record in the league, alongside Arsenal. They’ve only conceded 11 goals - and this is why. Because they’re so organised and (have an) understanding, as a team, of each other’s jobs. When to press, and to sit off.
“Trippier loses the ball here but just watch his reaction to get it back. When Chelsea got through the back four, they (Newcastle) have a wonderful goalkeeper to get past. What a job Eddie Howe is doing at Newcastle. It is great times. They go into the break in third position after another brilliant performance.”
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