Shocking 2/10, a few 3s and one 5 - Newcastle player ratings vs Aston Villa

Another ugly night for Newcastle United as the team looked awful at both ends of the pitch in a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa.

We had just one shot on target, looked soft in defence and wide open in midfield once again, lacking quality or conviction throughout. 
 
Here are our marks out of 10 and comments on each Mag involved. 

Starting 11

Hornicek (4.5) - Has been let down by those infront of him but still doesn't come across as a real commanding goalkeeper yet. Was outshone by his opposite number Suzuki who dominated his area. Still young but lacks assertiveness.

Miley (3.5) - Was exposed as a central midfielder moonlighting as a right back as he was at fault for the opening goal. He just let Manzambi evade him without as much as a challenge. Was caught out badly by Mbaye who skipped past him with ease and could've added a second. Could find himself on the bench as Dedic pushes for selection at right back.

Thiaw (4) - Much like Hornicek, isn't being given anywhere near enough support from his midfield. Has worn the captains armband a few times this season but doesn't come across as a natural leader and looks much more assured when partnered with the more vocal and commanding Dan Burn.

Botman (4) - Came the closest to scoring as he forced a sharp save from Suzuki in the 2nd half. Another one who lacks any sort of authority and was given a tough time by Jackson throughout. Can only be a matter of time before he makes way for Burn. Given a yellow which was looked at by VAR for a possible red card for winning the ball!

Hall (5) - Was the best of a bad bunch as he made some important defensive reads and was a constant outlet on the left. Would like to see him crossing a bit more from open play as he tends to cut back and play it safe. The only one who is guaranteed his place in the team on form, imperative that he stays fit.

Nico (4.5) - Tidy without really showing anything in an attacking sense. Much like previous games, has been dropping far too deep and creating gaping holes in midfield when we turn over possession. Dropping deep only works if the midfielders you are passing to have the ability to hold onto possession which we unfortunately don't have. Defensively was left covering far too much space as we are worryingly being carved open with far too much ease. Had to do more to close down the cross for Villa’s goal.

Joelinton (4) - Welcome return to the starting lineup but he looked understandably rusty with a few mistimed tackles and a customary yellow card. Was nice to see the added physicality in the middle of the park but the midfield is a massive cause for concern right now as the balance is completely wrong.

Willock (3) - Was played as a number 10 but was largely anonymous as the brief upturn in form this season has rapidly deserted him. Has been afforded ample opportunities but is clearly not suited to the role he is being asked to play. Will be lucky to hold onto his position.

Fernandez-Pardo (4) - One bright early run proved a false dawn as the experiment of playing him on the right wing didn't work at all. Is really struggling to make an impact and needs a goal to really kickstart his Newcastle career. Has a preference for playing as a number 9 but hasn't looked anything remotely like a talisman to lead the line.

Barnes (4) - Tried hard and was left frustrated as he took up some great positions but was largely ignored by his teammates. Is the only one who looks like a threat in an attacking sense. Was switched to the right wing midway through the second half in an attempt to freshen things up but was largely ineffective.

Wissa (2) - Last season Wissa has well and truly returned unfortunately. Snatched at a couple of half chances and made some terrible decisions in good areas. As an experienced member of the squad, he needs to step up and lead the line. He is failing at the moment and needs to become more of a team player. 

Substitutes 

Toure (3) - Looked terrified when in possession. Received the ball yet stopped and looked for a teammate when the game was crying out for someone to show some attacking impetus. Has seemingly forgotten how to dribble or cross the ball. Looks short of confidence like many of his teammates.

Osula (4) - Bundles of energy off the ball but very little quality on it as he wasted a good opportunity when 1 on 1 with Cash. Might find himself restored to the starting line up soon as we search for answers.

Burn (NR) - Thrown on as a makeshift striker late on.