David Ginola claimed Newcastle United have been trying to copy other teams in recent weeks after they were beaten 5-1 by Tottenham on Sunday. The second-half performance was arguably the worst of the season for the Magpies as they conceded four goals on the back of a strong first-half showing.
The defeat highlighted the problems that remain within Eddie Howe’s squad and showed that, while adequately distanced from the relegation zone, they are still not safe yet this season. A repeat of the first half in North London will see them cruise to safety between now and the end of the campaign but further performances like the second half could see them dragged right back into the mire.
That is, of course, an eventuality the United manager will be hoping to avoid but Ginola believes he needs to create his own identity at St James’ Park to ensure the Magpies are able to improve. Speaking on Sky Sports Super Sunday, he told the rest of the panel: “I think the team needs to be reshaped from scratch. Tactically, they are trying to copycat other teams without the quality you need.
