Newcastle United head coach Matthias Jaissle is hopeful of having a much stronger squad for the game at Coventry City when the international break ends next month, but that could bring a new dilemma for the Magpies head coach.
United were severely depleted in the 2-1 victory over Hull City last time out, but the German boss is optimistic he will have potentially five or six players back for the Monday night clash on October 12.
Hornicek's distribution shifts build-up
New goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek is far more comfortable with the ball at his feet than Nick Pope was, and as a consequence, is more able to play out from the back. While Newcastle like to get the ball forward quickly, they prefer a direct build up, not a long punt forward from the keeper.
As a result, centre-backs Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman have been the two players Hornicek has passed to more than any other on the pitch. In fact, he has picked out one of the two central defenders on no less than 60 occasions in the first five Premier League matches, including 18 times against Bournemouth.
Veterans stake their claim
Fabian Schar remains Newcastle's best bet when it comes to defenders spraying the ball about, while Dan Burn is still superior to Thiaw and Botman but has so far been unavailable with an ankle injury. Both are set to be available for Coventry.
Of course, the No 1 factor when it comes to that position is how well they defend. Even then, the elder statesmen of the United squad have a strong case. Thiaw quickly established himself as first choice following his arrival from Milan in 2025, and it would be a surprise if he was replaced in the side, but Botman needs to up his game, despite Jaissle's public backing.
Contract reality and future plans
Schar and Burn are into the final year of their contracts and the reality is neither is the long-term answer to any Newcastle issues, no matter how well they perform between now and next May.
Having Nico Gonzalez back in the side will give Hornicek a third short passing option, but if United are to continue in this style, their centre-backs must improve their distribution. It will be something that could colour next summer's transfer strategy, when the need for blood will be pressing.
