Defensive Frailty

With every passing season, the yearning for ‘silverware’ grows ever more desperate on Tyneside. By common consent Newcastle United is a massive club with a terrific stadium and wonderful passionate fans. It also has a history but unfortunately it is ancient history and that, more than anything, is what has made it such a difficult proposition for a succession of managers, all of whom have been given generous financial backing in their quest for success on the field.

Glenn Roeder took over the reins in difficult circumstances and brought stability and hope, even in the face of Alan Shearer’s much lamented retirement and the long term absence through injury of Michael Owen. But, as the loss to Fulham in the last ten minutes at St James Park demonstrates, the club is still haunted by the spectre of defensive errors, in the light of which Jonathan Woodgate’s decision to join Middlesbrough, his hometown team, must be absolutely heartbreaking for everyone associated with Newcastle United football club.