Jacob Ramsey's place in the Newcastle United starting line-up was a welcome sight for many supporters on Thursday night, but his role in the team continues to look uncertain after he was withdrawn at half-time against Everton.
Ramsey has endured a frustrating time since his £42million move from Aston Villa. He took a while to settle on Tyneside before starting to find his feet under former manager Eddie Howe, and looked set to become a key player. A raft of niggly injuries and Howe's exit have disrupted his progress, and while current boss Matthias Jaissle has spoken positively about the player, Ramsey has yet to fully convince the German of his best role in the side.
Mixed Display at Everton
Deployed as one of the midfield two at Everton, Ramsey had some positive moments going forward but failed to track Hayden Hackney for Everton's second goal on the counter-attack. He was subsequently replaced by Joelinton at half-time.
The substitution means Ramsey looks likely to be consigned to the substitutes' bench once again, but many Newcastle fans believe he has more to give.
Fans Split on Ramsey's Best Position
On Facebook, James Rogers said: "I don't think hes the problem. I think the tactics don't suit the team, he has no options going forward, no one are making themselves available, too many selfish people trying the glory route (Barnes), too many players lack the ideas and being productive with it (Murphy)."
Craig Futers added: "It's hard to contribute when there's no clear strategy to our play regardless of him being any good or not." A number of supporters would like to see Ramsey utilised in the No 10 role ahead of Joe Willock, with the 25-year-old's ability to get on the ball between the lines seen as an asset.
"He's our 10. Play him there," said Rob Williams, while Ian Noble added: "He needs to be a 10, Stuer 6 and Gonzalez 8. The others to cover." Brad Spence commented: "Doesn't help he's always being played out of position - he was a left winger/number 10 at Villa," to which Matty Paul replied: "Exactly . . . he definitely isn't a defensive midfielder, play him as a 10 instead of Willock."
Injuries and Transfer Calls
Antti Heino blamed injuries for Ramsey's lack of progress, saying: "I think Ramsey is very good player and he has big potential but we don't see too much and of course he's is injured to often." Craig Morris responded: "Agree on injuries being an issue but the big reason is he's our most natural 10 but Jaissle won't play him there."
However, a few supporters disagree with Ramsey's potential and believe the midfielder should be put up for transfer. "Get rid in January," said Per Stahre, while David Elgy added: "Sell in January. I don't see anything in his game."
The debate over Ramsey's best role and future at the club continues, with supporters divided on whether he should be given a chance as a No 10 or sold in the January transfer window.
