Can Newcastle's Set-Piece Coach Revive the Giants?

Newcastle United's recent struggles in front of goal have raised concerns, particularly with only three goals scored in the Premier League this season. Despite a squad filled with tall and imposing players, the team has yet to find their rhythm in set-piece situations. Head coach Eddie Howe acknowledges the need for improvement and has brought in a new set-piece coach to enhance their offensive strategies.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Newcastle United has only scored three goals in the Premier League this season.
• Head coach Eddie Howe is critical of the team's set-piece performance.
• New set-piece coach Martin Mark joins the squad to improve scoring from dead-ball situations.
• Newcastle's approach this season includes more long throws and set-piece attempts.
• Arsenal leads the Premier League in scoring from set-pieces, highlighting the challenge Newcastle faces.

The Current Situation

Newcastle United's performance in the Premier League this season has been underwhelming, particularly in terms of scoring goals. With only three goals to their name, the team has struggled to convert set-pieces into tangible results on the pitch. This lack of scoring is particularly concerning given the height and physicality of their squad, designed to excel in situations like corners and free-kicks.

Head Coach's Assessment

Eddie Howe, the head coach, has expressed his frustration with the team's performance in set-piece situations. "We have the players, we have the height and we have the delivery," he said, acknowledging that something is not quite clicking. Howe takes responsibility for the team's underwhelming performance and is determined to rectify the situation.

Howe's comments echo similar sentiments from the previous season when Newcastle went through a lengthy period without scoring from corners. However, after diligent work on set-pieces, the team found success, culminating in a significant win in the Carabao Cup final.

Set-Piece Strategy and Changes

Newcastle's approach to set-pieces has undergone a noticeable shift this season. Last year, the team rarely utilised long throws, with only one recorded in the entire Premier League season. In stark contrast, they have already attempted 13 long throws in the first five games of this campaign, averaging 3.4 per match. This strategy aligns with a broader trend in football, where teams are increasingly looking to exploit set-piece opportunities.

Introducing Martin Mark

To bolster Newcastle's set-piece capabilities, the club brought in Martin Mark, a specialist with a proven track record at Midtjylland, where he helped the team achieve impressive results from dead-ball situations. Mark's expertise and passion for set-pieces are expected to enhance Newcastle's performance in this area. His previous work has been noted for its effectiveness, and he is anticipated to bring a new level of detail and strategy to Newcastle's set-piece routines.

The Importance of Set-Pieces

Set-pieces represent a significant opportunity for teams to score goals, particularly in tightly contested matches. For Newcastle, the ability to convert set-pieces into goals could be the difference between winning and losing. This season, only four Premier League teams have had more shots from set-pieces than Newcastle, yet their conversion rate has been disappointing, with just one goal scored from these opportunities.

Statistics and Comparisons

In terms of expected goals (xG) from set-pieces, Newcastle currently stands at 1.56, while league leaders Arsenal have an impressive 3.55. This disparity underscores the work that lies ahead for Newcastle as they aim to improve their efficiency in converting set-pieces into goals. Despite not having conceded from set-pieces this season, the team's offensive struggles cannot be ignored.

Learning from the Competition

Arsenal serves as a benchmark for Newcastle regarding set-piece effectiveness. Half of Arsenal's goals this season have originated from set-pieces, highlighting their proficiency in this area. As Newcastle prepares to face off against Arsenal, Howe knows that addressing their set-piece strategy is crucial for success.

Future Outlook

As Newcastle aims to improve their goal-scoring record, the focus on set-pieces will be essential. The integration of Martin Mark into the coaching staff is expected to provide fresh ideas and strategies to enhance Newcastle's scoring opportunities from dead-ball situations. Howe's commitment to addressing the issue is clear, and fans will be watching closely to see how these changes manifest on the pitch.

Conclusion: A Set-Piece Revolution?

Newcastle United finds itself at a crucial juncture as they look to turn around their fortunes this season. With a squad rich in physical presence and a dedicated coaching staff, there is potential for a significant improvement in their set-piece performance. Whether the team will be able to adapt and start converting these opportunities into goals remains to be seen. The upcoming fixtures will be vital in determining if Newcastle can find their scoring touch and rise up the Premier League table.

How will Newcastle evolve their strategy to capitalise on set-pieces? The upcoming matches will provide insight into whether this team can harness its potential effectively. #NewcastleUnited #PremierLeague #SetPieces

FAQs

What is Newcastle United's current goal-scoring record in the Premier League?

As of now, Newcastle United has scored only three goals in the Premier League this season, highlighting their struggles in front of goal.

Who is the new set-piece coach for Newcastle United?

Martin Mark is the new set-piece coach for Newcastle United, having previously worked at Midtjylland, where he helped improve their goal-scoring from dead-ball situations.

How has Newcastle's strategy changed regarding set-pieces this season?

This season, Newcastle has significantly increased the number of long throws and set-piece attempts, averaging 3.4 long throws into the penalty area per match, compared to 0.9 last season.

What challenges does Newcastle face in set-piece situations?

Despite having numerous shots from set-pieces, Newcastle has struggled to convert these opportunities into goals, with only one goal scored from dead-ball situations so far.

How do Newcastle's set-piece statistics compare to Arsenal's?

Newcastle has an expected goals (xG) from set-pieces of 1.56, whereas Arsenal tops the league with 3.55, indicating a need for Newcastle to improve their efficiency.