Eddie Howe made huge error with Newcastle star who was ‘undefendable at times’ vs Barcelona

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Eddie Howe made one significant error with his decision-making during Newcastle United’s defeat against Barcelona.

The Magpies kicked off their Champions League campaign in front of an electric St. James’ Park, but they were unable to give the fans something to cheer about after 90 minutes.

Despite Anthony Gordon scoring at the end of the game, Howe’s team suffered a 2-1 loss after a brace from Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford.

Rashford stunned fans and players alike with his two goals, but one member of the Newcastle squad was able to stand out as well.

Eddie Howe made a mistake substituting Anthony Elanga

A lot of the focus in the build-up to the game went on Gordon, and the potential impact of Nick Woltemade, but it was Anthony Elanga who ended up dazzling against Barcelona.

He caused problems throughout the match, being the most dangerous player in a Newcastle shirt as he provided golden opportunities for his teammates to score.

That is why many fans were surprised when Howe opted to take Elanga off in the 63rd minute, as the Magpies lost their attacking threat from that moment.

Nobody else provided the same dangerous runs in behind the Barcelona back four to ask questions of Hansi Flick’s team, which made this a crucial mistake from Howe’s perspective.

Shay Given felt Anthony Elanga was ‘undefendable’

Elanga’s performance was statistically impressive, and supporters enjoyed watching the threat that he posed throughout the game.

The Newcastle winger also wowed club legend Shay Given, who praised the former Nottingham Forest star when he discussed him on TNT Sports.

“With his pace in behind, he was undefendable at times.”

Given also felt Barcelona’s Gerard Martin should have been sent off for a foul he committed in the first half of the game, which could have led to a totally different match.