Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe saw his team selection justified as he brought Matt Targett into the starting line-up for the first time this year.
The former Aston Villa star got a positive 68 minutes under his belt and had a hand in the opening goal in the 4-1 thrashing of Everton at Goodison Park. Howe though has revealed that Dan Burn wasn't dropped and rested after suffering with an illness.
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Opening up on his selection, which also saw Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy benched, Howe said: "It’s always difficult when you’ve got decisions to make."I’ve got to look at the balance of the team and make the right decisions, not just for this game but also for the games that are ahead. There’s a plan behind my thinking."
Reflecting on Burn taking a rest, Howe, who travelled with Paul Dummett as defensive cover, said: "Dan Burn was a slightly different situation (to Murphy and Isak) because he wasn’t feeling very good in the build-up to the game. But I thought Matt Targett did really well, and I think that shows the strength of the squad. It’s good to see players coming in and taking their opportunities."
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