As Sandro Tonali left the pitch at St James’ Park on Saturday afternoon, a rare chorus of boos echoed from the Gallowgate End, aimed at Eddie Howe’s decision to substitute the midfielder.
Tonali, who has quickly become a fan favorite at Newcastle, was replaced by Joe Willock in the 66th minute as the team pushed to level the score against Brighton & Hove Albion. While the substitution didn’t sit well with some supporters, Howe had his reasons, citing Tonali’s recent international duty with Italy and signs of fatigue as the factors behind the early exit.
“I think he’s doing well; I had no issues with his performance today,” Howe explained. “He played his part in a dominant midfield performance. But we’re mindful of the players who have been on international duty and the physical toll they endure. Sandro was feeling a bit fatigued, and Bruno [Guimarães] was cramping towards the end, so we had to manage that.”
Willock’s substitution was one of five changes Howe made in a bid to turn the tide, but despite 21 shots and 60% possession, Newcastle couldn’t find the breakthrough. Reflecting on the game, Howe admitted the substitutions didn’t have the impact he had hoped for.
“To be honest, I don’t think our substitutions improved the performance,” Howe confessed. “Sometimes, changes can lift the team, but today, that didn’t happen. I always hope the changes will elevate us, but it wasn’t the case this time.”
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