Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd has told Glenn Roeder his job is safe at Newcastle – and the two even met last Friday at the Little Benton training ground to review the transfer targets for the summer. But – as we all know – results can change attitudes and feelings very quickly at Newcastle and Shepherd is known to act ruthlessly when things go bad.
If we are to keep Glenn Roeder for next season – then fine – I suppose we need to get behind him – his heart is certainly in the right place.
What we shouldn’t want to happen is wait for the first 4-5 games next season and then decide he must go – Freddy Shepherd should make that decision now. We have to be surethat what we spend and who we bring in during the summer – is consistent with who the manager will be.
The fact that Sam Allardyce would reportedly jump at the chance of coming to Newcastle makes this a lot more interesting of course.
It is also very dangerous for Roeder to lose games right now – very dangerous for his job. While we have had terrible injuries this season – that has not been the case during the last nine games when we have failed to score in seven of the games and ammassed only 6 points – a very poor return.
NEWCASTLE UNITED MANAGER – GLENN ROEDER
Last night Newcastle played quite well in the first half and matched Reading’s drive – and could easily have been a goal up at half time. The thing that turns some fans off is when they get behind – as we did yesterday – after Kieron Dyer had needlessly given the ball away – and Dave Kitson took his chance well – we do not seem to bother too much if the score doesn’t change.
The good teams always give a response to going behind – and Reading themselves are known for this. It’s not too long ago when they found themselves quickly 3-0 down to Manchester United after six minutes (FA Cup February 27th this year) but they kept their heads and finally got back to 3-2 and it was touch and go in the final minutes whether they would get an equalizer – a wonderful performance in defeat.
Not so yesterday for Newcastle – although a few players showed good form and urgency including Carr, Taylor and James Milner.
But we cannot continue this bad streak this season – the game against Blackburn on Saturday will not be easy – but since it’s at home – we can and should win.
If we don’t – the cries for Sam Allardyce will become ever louder.
Ed Harrison also writes on Soccerlens – read his match report on the Newcastle – Reading game.
2 responses so far ↓
1 Neil // May 2, 2007 at 10:44 AM
They still were missing Parker and Butt, and had Carr playing on the left. But I agree that for Roeder’s and the fans peace of mind, a good showing in the final weeks is vital.
2 Ed Harrison // May 2, 2007 at 11:20 AM
Neil – it could well be that momentum is picking up for Allardyce – principally from the Newcastle fans. Feel as though it would be unfair to Roeder if he gets replaced now – but not sure that would upset Shepherd.
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