As ever, Newcastle United have finished bottom of a league table when it comes to analysing key metrics.
Not only do they produce the fewest shots on target per Premier League game in the division (WhoScored), as well as progress the ball the shortest distance in possession (The Athletic), another study by the latter publication has revealed they are, in fact, the worst Premier League side when it comes to pressing too.
So, it’s barely much of a surprise to read growing fan frustration about Newcastle’s style of play on social media.
Indeed, this just isn’t a side built for playing on the front foot and, conceding the most shots in the Premier League this year, aren’t exactly strong on their back one either.
Will Steve Bruce last the season?
Yes
No
The underlying numbers, once again, make grim reading but are pundits likely to take that into account? Given everything we’ve heard from a lot of them over the last few weeks and months, the chances seem remote.
Obviously, a win over West Brom tomorrow would put Newcastle well on course to reach the halfway point of the magical 40 point mark often associated with staying up but, is that really the point? What’s fun about that?
What’s fun about Newcastle? Very, very little and none of the statistics suggest it’s going to get much better.
Don’t blame Sean Longstaff if he wants to go! Read all about it here…