Kieran Trippier was so frustrated after another disappointing away game for the Magpies that he demanded his Newcastle United team-mates recognize and applaud the visiting supporters. Trippier, clearly upset, instructed his senior players to thank the 1,716 fans who once again endured travel disruption due to the disruption of the East Coast Main Line.
The former England full-back’s antics saw him walk off the pitch, followed by a demoralized Newcastle team. If the performance in the defeat against West Ham was shocking, this one wasn’t all that good, and despite Newcastle having a number of players over six feet tall, it saw some Sunday League defense struggle to cope with the inevitable onslaught of throw-ins. This was not an isolated incident.
Newcastle have currently won just four of their last 15 Premier League games and have just 16 points out of a possible 45.
Indeed, Newcastle have performed well in the Carabao Cup and Champions League, but their current form portends a relegation battle, and their Premier League standings don’t lie.
Harvey Barnes put Newcastle ahead before Kevin Shade and Igor Thiago did the damage with goals. Dan Byrne was also sent off for an unforgettable afternoon for the visitors.
The Magpies go into the international break in 14th place, two points above the relegation zone, but have a difficult game against Man City looming. If they continue to score goals like this, they may find themselves in even more trouble.
Newcastle are yet to win away in the Premier League this season and are lagging behind in the race for European qualification. These are really difficult times.
