‘Chasing shadows’: BBC pundit blasts ‘awful’ Newcastle star who ‘looked like he couldn’t run’

Newcastle United suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Liverpool, unable to make a real impact throughout the match. The Magpies failed to register a single shot on target and struggled to gain control, holding just 38% possession.

The result drops Eddie Howe’s side to sixth in the Premier League table, pushing them out of a Champions League spot, though they remain just two points behind Chelsea in fifth.

While few expected Newcastle to come away from Anfield with a victory, the nature of the loss raised concerns, particularly given the lack of attacking threat and overall sluggish performance.

The absence of Alexander Isak, who reportedly suffered a minor injury following the win against Nottingham Forest, forced Callum Wilson into the starting lineup.

Without their star striker, Newcastle lacked sharpness in the final third. Meanwhile, Nick Pope’s performance was under scrutiny after criticism from fans following the Forest game.

Many hoped the goalkeeper would bounce back with a solid display, but he looked far from convincing. His hesitation and positioning left him vulnerable for both Liverpool goals, leading to renewed calls for Martin Dubravka to reclaim the starting role.

While Steve McManaman defended Pope, supporters will be eager to see a stronger presence between the posts in upcoming matches.

With Newcastle needing improvements ahead of crucial fixtures, former club defender John Anderson voiced his concerns about one particular player.

Speaking after the match, Anderson singled out Bruno Guimarães, who has been a key figure for the Magpies this season but has recently struggled to maintain his usual high standards.

Working as a commentator for BBC Radio Newcastle, Anderson has seen the team’s best and worst performances this season, and he placed Wednesday’s display firmly in the latter category.

Guimarães, normally composed and press-resistant, has shown signs of fatigue in recent weeks. Having featured in every league game this season, the Brazilian appears to be struggling with the physical demands of such a relentless schedule.

Howe was vocal in his criticism of both Guimarães and Sandro Tonali, pointing to their mistakes as the catalysts for Liverpool’s goals. Anderson echoed those sentiments, stating bluntly that the midfielder has been far below his usual standard.

“He’s been awful lately,” Anderson said during commentary. “He looked like he couldn’t run, like he was chasing shadows. I think he’s been poor for a while.”

Given his leadership role, Guimarães must find a way to recover quickly. Appointed captain this season after requesting greater involvement behind the scenes, he carries added responsibility.

Setting the tone for the squad requires more than just leadership off the pitch—it demands consistent performances that inspire those around him. If he is to continue leading by example, he must rediscover his form and influence games the way he has done so often in the past.

With the FA Cup fifth-round clash against Brighton on the horizon, Newcastle has an opportunity to rest key players before the Carabao Cup final.

The competition has already seen Howe rotate his squad, and given Guimarães’ recent struggles, this fixture presents an ideal chance to give him a much-needed break. Allowing the midfielder time to recover could prove vital for the remainder of the season.

Newcastle has enough depth to cope in his absence. Lewis Miley has impressed since stepping up following Joelinton’s injury, showing maturity beyond his years.

Sean Longstaff remains an option for Howe, providing energy and tactical discipline in midfield. In more extreme cases, players like Lewis Hall, Anthony Gordon, or even Matt Targett could be deployed in makeshift midfield roles if necessary.

The depth within the squad ensures that resting Guimarães for one match does not significantly weaken the team.

Howe will need his best players fully fit as Newcastle approaches a defining period in their season. The upcoming cup final represents a golden opportunity to end the club’s long trophy drought, and having Guimarães at his best could be the difference between success and disappointment. Managing his workload now will allow him to be at peak condition when it matters most.

The defeat at Anfield serves as a wake-up call for Newcastle. While they remain in the hunt for a top-four finish and silverware, performances must improve, and key players must step up.

The road ahead is challenging, but if managed correctly, the Magpies still have everything to play for in the final months of the campaign.