“Jermaine Jenas has reviewed the upcoming game between Newcastle and Liverpool at St. James’ Park on Sunday and thinks Newcastle fans should enjoy being in the top 10 of the Premier League “while it lasts.”
So it looks like the former Newcastle central midfielder doesn’t think we will be in the top half for long.
Let’s hope we can win this game on Sunday against a top Liverpool side who can be awesome in attack.
It’s also the last game before the (boring) International break, so that’s extra incentive for our lads to win this game.
The man who will have the full attention of both sets of fans on Sunday is manager Rafa Benitez.
Rafa was the very successful manager of Liverpool when he significantly revived their fortunes starting in 2004.
Liverpool fans will never forget what Benitez did for their club.
Jermaine Jenas – former Newcastle player
This is what Jermaine has said on BBC Sports:
“It is great to see my old club Newcastle in the top half of the Premier League table, but my message to their fans would be to enjoy it while it lasts.”
“Nobody knows what is going to happen with this Magpies team this season, so their supporters just have to enjoy the ride – and there are going to be a few ups and downs.”
“They have won three and lost three of their six games so far, which is decent for a promoted side, and I am sure many Newcastle fans will be absolutely delighted by the way they have started the campaign.”
“My main concerns about the Magpies now are the same as before the season started: the lack of squad depth and where their goals will come from.
“They are also short of experience. The average age of their starting eleven this season is the youngest in the top flight and only four of their players have played more than 100 Premier League games.”
“Mo Diame (183), Jack Colback (179), Jonjo Shelvey (144) and Ciaran Clark (140) (Ed note: Jack Colback may not play again for Newcastle.)
“But there are some positives.”
“Their team might be young but I don’t think they fear anything – and Lascelles, who is their captain at 23, is the perfect example of that.”
“Also, in Benitez, they have got the perfect manager to guide them through their journey.”
“He is the main reason why I think, ultimately, they will be OK.”
“The Spaniard did not get the signings he wanted over the summer, but he is working with the players.”
“Rafa has got and giving them belief and togetherness – as well as organizing them, of course.”
Geordie fans are hoping Rafa can revive Newcastle and if we can finish mid-table or in the top half that’s a good foundation for an attack on the top six places next season.
In Rafa We Trust.
Loading ...Howay The Lads!!
Comments welcome.
8 comments so far
sing in the corner
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:15 AM
Comment #1Well Jermaine certainly has time on his side. Many many years ahead of him at the forefront of punditry. He’s already getting pretty good at repeating sweeping generalisations and the bleeding obvious.
toontaff2
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:29 AM
Comment #2I would seriously recommend the benefits of early morning caffeine, Jermaine!
Keeps you regular, helps avoid spouting the stuff!
Jib
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:33 AM
Comment #3Strange contradiction from Jenas
He joined us in 2001 and made 12 appearances in the PL
We achieved 4th place
The next season he played 32 times in the PL
bringing his career total to 44
We achieved 3rd place
Seeming to confirm that it isn’t PL experience but managers
that make the difference
Then SBR – now San Rafael
toontaff2
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:34 AM
Comment #4As a mouthpiece of Rafa, clearly essential! 😆
Unless I see/hear any new news to the contrary, I’m not expecting changes to our line up v Liverpool, expecting the same side as v Brighton.
Mbemba will be our best available option, though Dummett’s defensive solidity would be preferred. Cannot see Rafa changing the team, though Merino at 10, with Shelvey in would be an interesting option.
Think Mitro on the bench, making a second half cameo.
A tough game, but a hard fought 5-1 Toon win! 🙄
RUNAWAY777
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:36 AM
Comment #5Morning toontatt2 another ex player that thinks he knows it all darf twat
toontaff2
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:37 AM
Comment #6ED, the international break will be far from boring for the Welsh and Irish! Unfortunately, we don’t have the luxury of straightforward qualification.
toontaff2
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:38 AM
Comment #7Well put, Runaway!
Jib
Sep 29, 2017 at 8:39 AM
Comment #8I should have added that although JJ
finally achieved 270 PL appearances
In 11 seasons
That 3rd place in his 2nd season
was the highest finish in his career.