Following an injury sustained by Paul Dummett in his side’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, Newcastle will travel to the Etihad this Saturday with just four fully fit senior defenders – Daryl Janmaat, Fabricio Coloccini, Mike Williamson and Massadio Haidara.
Although Dummett’s injury isn’t as serious as first thought, despite leaving the stadium on crutches, the young Welshman is still expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the month. His injury will put greater strain on interim boss John Carver, who’s already begun to receive criticism from the terraces for his questionable and ill-timed substitutions.
Versatile midfielder Vurnon Anita can fill in at either full-back position, if need be, but the squad lacks any tangible depth at the centre of defence.
John Carver may argue the injuries that have afflicted his squad were beyond his control but his excuses will fall on deaf ears with fans already pointing the finger at the board.
Following the exits of Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa and Davide Santon to Roma and Inter Milan respectively, as well as Remi Streete’s loan move to Rangers, the Geordie faithful have voiced their concerns at the board’s decision not to improve upon the squad’s inadequate defensive depth.
According to a recent report in the Chronicle, the club’s hierarchy elected not to invest in another defender with the impending arrival of Nottingham Forrest defender Jamaal Lascelles, who they believe has what it takes to be a key player for the Magpies in the future.
Although this comes as good news for Lascelles, as it’s a good indication of just how highly Graham Carr’s scouting team rate him, the youngster has failed to hit the heights expected of him this season, as Forest continue to falter.
Jamaal, who previously attracted interest from a number of top Premier League sides – including Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham, has justified the hype surrounding him with some top drawer performances for the Reds in the past, so it would be premature to write him off.
So, what’s your view? Was the board’s decision wise electing not to sign defensive cover with Jamaal Lascelles’ impending arrival? Leave your comments below!
