Newcastle played host to Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup second round on Wednesday night at St. James Park.
Rafa Benitez’s men were looking for momentum from anywhere they could get it, and they failed to get it with their much-changed side, losing 2-3 against the Championship team. Here are three things when learned:
Rafa rings the changes
Benitez made no mistakes in deciding to make ten changes to his side after their poor start to the season. He has to find some momentum, or someone to help get the team back up to the proper levels.
This was the appropriate time to do just that. While a cup run would be nice, it would mean nothing to do them if they were to get relegated.
So, it was very much a good decision- and a necessary one- from the Spanish boss. It did not pay off with a win, though, as they fell to the Championship side in what is honestly far from a shock.
Aarons, Mitrovic show themselves worthy of a chance
It’s been long while since we’ve seen Rolando Aarons out on the pitch in official action, but the winger returned in a big way on Wednesday night to help set up Aleksandar Mitrovic for the opener after just three minutes.
Despite having Achilles issues, the winger came back straight away and showed an incredible turn of pace to set up the Serbian.
The Serbian showed composure with his finish, and he has the height and power to be effective if given service. Maybe these two players can help them moving forward.
Magpies make Nottingham look like Barcelona
When football is at its best, it’s usually played by Barcelona. That’s what we all have in our heads, at least, whether you want to admit that or not. Nottingham Forest are a good side, but they are not a classic team.
However, Newcastle made them look as if they were European champions for their first goal. They just let the pick them apart, moving them from side-to-side and then getting in behind. To make matters worse, when they played long the Magpies again failed.
Failing to cope with any and all threats is a massive worry, and Rafa Benitez will wonder if he has the patience to deal with this very real mess.
