In the aftermath of a dramatic European night in the French capital, one of English football’s most iconic figures has stepped forward to offer high praise for the tactical evolution of Newcastle United. Steven Gerrard, speaking as an analyst for TNT Sports, was visibly impressed by the resilience and strategic depth displayed by the Magpies during their 1-1 draw against Paris Saint-Germain.
Following a match where Newcastle had to weather an early storm from the reigning Champions League holders, Gerrard didn’t mince words about his admiration for Eddie Howe. “Eddie Howe is brilliant. I love him,” Gerrard stated, capturing the sentiment of many who watched the Premier League side go toe-to-toe with the world’s most expensive assembly of talent.
The context of this performance makes the result even more remarkable. Newcastle arrived at the Parc des Princes having endured a grueling domestic schedule and a mounting injury list. Despite these hurdles, Howe made the bold decision to implement five changes to his starting lineup.
Perhaps the most significant was the return of Dan Burn, who miraculously recovered from a punctured lung and broken rib sustained only six weeks ago. This willingness to adapt and the ability to inspire a player to return from such a traumatic injury speaks volumes about the culture Howe has built on Tyneside.
Gerrard was particularly taken by the shift in formation, noting that Howe’s decision to move to a back five was a masterstroke. According to Gerrard, PSG’s ability to probe and ask questions from every area of the pitch makes a compact, solidified defense an absolute necessity.
By choosing to prioritize defensive stability while remaining a threat on the break, Howe navigated a tactical minefield with the poise of a seasoned European manager.
While the statistics from the match might suggest a one-sided affair with PSG enjoying 67% possession and unleashing 25 shots the reality on the pitch told a different story. Newcastle grew into the game with every passing minute. After conceding an early goal to Vitinha, they didn’t crumble.
Instead, they became increasingly dangerous, eventually silencing the home crowd just before halftime through a Joe Willock equalizer. In the second half, Newcastle arguably looked like the more threatening side, using their athleticism to catch the Parisians out of position.
This grit is even more impressive when you consider the history between these two clubs. Newcastle has now faced PSG three times in this competition, and they remain undefeated, boasting a 4-1 win and two 1-1 draws. Both draws in Paris were marred by controversial officiating, yet the Magpies have consistently punched above their weight.
Looking ahead, Gerrard pointed out that the rest of the Premier League should be taking notice. Newcastle’s schedule is relentless; having just played Aston Villa and PSG, they now travel to Anfield to face Liverpool this Saturday.
Gerrard, a man who knows the hallowed turf of Anfield better than almost anyone, admitted that the current Newcastle setup is a “big worry” for the Reds. He highlighted the terrifying pace and athleticism in the squad, specifically mentioning players like Anthony Gordon, Joe Willock, Anthony Elanga, and Harvey Barnes.
He noted that the team is perfectly tuned to be a counter-attacking machine, a style that often causes problems for high-pressing teams like Liverpool.
| Match Statistic | Newcastle United | Paris Saint-Germain |
| Goals | 1 | 1 |
| Possession | 33% | 67% |
| Total Shots | 10 | 25 |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 7 |
| Corners | 1 | 5 |
| Touches in Opposition Box | 25 | 48 |
The data from the PSG match highlights the efficiency that Gerrard was talking about. Despite having significantly less of the ball, Newcastle managed four shots on target from just ten attempts.
They made their limited time in the opposition box count. This level of efficiency is exactly what makes them such a dangerous opponent in knockout football and high-stakes league matches. Gerrard concluded that while the outcome was a draw, Howe should be immensely proud of the way his team represented English football on the toughest stage imaginable.
The lineup that took the field in Paris also revealed the depth and versatility now available to Howe. With the likes of Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman forming a wall alongside Dan Burn, and the energy of Sandro Tonali and Aaron Ramsey in the middle, Newcastle has a spine that can compete with anyone.
The fact that players like Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes remained on the bench as unused substitutes shows that Howe is carefully managing his resources for the long season ahead.
Ultimately, Gerrard’s verdict serves as a validation of the project at St. James’ Park. It is no longer just about the financial backing; it is about the elite coaching and the tactical discipline that Eddie Howe has instilled. Newcastle has shown that they can go to the backyard of the European champions and refuse to be intimidated.
As they prepare to walk out at Anfield, they do so with the respect of their peers and the knowledge that they are one of the most difficult teams in Europe to break down. The “rollercoaster” season continues, but with performances like the one in Paris, the fans have every reason to believe that the ride is going to end on a high note.
