A victory that relegated 10-man Ipswich Town was predictable but the final goalscorer – Newcastle’s roughest of diamonds William Osula – was not. Stooping to nod Kieran Trippier’s wonderful cross past Alex Palmer, Osula’s accomplished header was a tentative sign that a changing of the guard is under way at St James’ Park.
That Callum Wilson, whose Newcastle future is in doubt with talks on a new contract yet to be initiated by the club, was also on the field at the time felt symbolic.
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But he may not be alone. Joe Willock was handed the chance to impress in the absence of the influential Joelinton and, in truth, was hit and miss. It has been a difficult, stop-start campaign for him and Sean Longstaff, who has played just 75 minutes of football in this calendar year and was once again an unused substitute.
He set up two goals against shell-shocked Ipswich at the weekend, standing up a wonderful cross for Dan Burn to head his first Premier League goal of the season, and was a driving force in a difficult first half when the visitors threatened to gain a foothold. Insiders say he is one of those who sets the standards in the dressing room, and there is a belief at the club that another campaign of Champions League football is likely to persuade him that his future lies at Newcastle.
“He is a difference-maker for us. He has obvious qualities on the pitch, but he is a leader and his experience helps us in so many ways,” Howe said afterwards. Wary of ripping things up too drastically, he remains a big fan of Trippier.
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One thing is for certain: any recruitment must not threaten the culture that Howe has built at Newcastle. This was yet another strong response to a heavy defeat in a season that might have overwhelmed more brittle squads. Instead they turned the page on a 4-1 defeat to Aston Villa as they once again showcased impressive resilience.
“You’re going to have disappointing days and poor results but the need to bounce back and show the mental resolve to respond is one of our best characteristics. With four games left, we can’t afford to have any more setbacks.”
Having their leader back helped Newcastle here and, given Jason Tindall picked up a yellow card that will see him suspended for next weekend’s trip to Brighton, Howe’s return was timely. There is a lot to be decided in the coming weeks.
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