Newsletter

Get your daily update and weekly newsletter by signing up today!

News

Six Potential Choices But Who Should Be Newcastle United Left Back?

10 years ago
Share

The big talking point on team selection before the Manchester City game was without doubt the inclusion of Paul Dummett.

Now personally I don’t rate him at all, quite simply he isn’t good enough to play for Newcastle United. I also accept that a few will hold back on their criticism of the lad because he’s come through the ranks or because he’s a local kid.

The two least effective players to play for Newcastle last season were arguably Steven Taylor and Shola Ameobi. Just because they are local lads doesn’t mean they deserve a place, we would all love 11 Geordies but I’m pretty sure we would be in league 2.

Now we all know Pardew loves a good left back but the big question is who should be first choice going forward this season?

Santon

An Italian international (of sorts) and highly thought of by Mr Mourinho, Santon is technically first choice at SJP. Two footed full back who has pace and vision which has even seen him drafted into centre midfield (why I don’t know).

Personally I’ve been a big advocate for Santon to be pushed forward into a more advanced role on the left. I see a player who could live up to the initial heights set by Jonas. Again, my personal opinion is his defensive capabilities are very poor and ultimately wouldn’t be my left back but I would be tempted to with a left wing role given his good attacking attributes and mentality.

LB rating 6/10

Haïdara

The one quite a few of us like the look of. He is a player that has all the attributes to be a top left back in the premiership.

He’s athletic, quick, good left foot and bags of energy. However, the key question is has he progressed enough. You can argue the tackle he received at Wigan some 18 months ago is still bearing a mental scare. He is my choice but you have to be concerned as to why he hasn’t cemented this position already.

LB rating 7/10

Dummett

Now having read the beginning of the article you can already assume I’m not a big fan. To be honest there is nothing wrong with his attitude, determination and throw in he’s a local lad – all positive. Nevertheless he is a player massively out of his depth in the Premier League.

Perhaps his biggest problem is his lack of pace. Given Newcastle rarely play with a conventional left winger, it is the responsibility of the full back to be box to box and contribute to both sections of play regularly.

Unfortunately, Paul can’t do that and his crossing ability is almost non-existent. We all know his quality is in a steady back four with defensive mentalities, those shared by AP. Expect to see him feature heavily away from home and against the top sides as a safe option, though not a positive one.

LB rating 5/10

Colback

Now we all know why Jack was really signed…. because of course he has played as a full-back for the SMB. In all honesty he is the player I’m most looking forward to seeing this season as we have been crying out for a player with heart, passion and energy in the middle of the park.

Too many games we lost by massive margins, something I think he can help us avoid. A player I like but hopefully we won’t see him at LB.

LB rating 4/10

Jonas

Well whether he plays for us again remains to be seen. The legs have gone a little now but as a LB I think he has potential. I long hoped for a positional swap with Santon but it never occurred. Energy and determination, key factors for player who probably won’t be seen again.

LB rating 5/10

Mapou

What happened to the captain of a French title wining side? I guess the only answer is ‘Pardewed’. Despite an awful pre-season I can’t help but feel sorry for the lad. There is clearly talent there and a run of games alongsideWilliamson is more than required IMO.

Colo is on the decline and it’s now or never for them as a partnership and I hope the captain makes way soon. As far as LB is concerned, he’s played there before and probably will again, in fact don’t be surprised to see him there again in the league cup.

LB rating 4/10

Overall it has to be Haïdara for me. Not only is there massive potential there but he is probably already the best man for the job. Despite that, I expect Dummett to command the full back position for the majority of the season, sad really.

Share

If you would like to feature on The Mag, submit your article to contribute@themag.co.uk

Have your say

© 2024 The Mag. All Rights Reserved. Design & Build by Mediaworks