Newcastle’s back-to-back defeats put Jaissle tactics under scrutiny

Newcastle United have suffered consecutive defeats, losing 4-1 away to Coventry City and 1-0 at home to Aston Villa, prompting scrutiny of manager Matthias Jaissle’s tactics and discussions with senior players about his system. The losses, played on Monday, October 12, and Saturday, October 17, according to the reports, were Newcastle’s first back-to-back defeats of the season. The Aston Villa result was also the club’s first home loss of the campaign. Reports said Jaissle sought feedback from senior squad members on his approach and was told they remained committed to its principles. The accounts rely on people familiar with the discussions. Jaissle is not expected to abandon his preferred style, described as vertical football, but is open to adjustments. In an earlier interview, he said Newcastle’s 4-2-3-1 formation should not be treated as fixed, pointing to shifts in midfield roles and positioning. He has also been reported to have consulted his backroom staff as he considers how to improve results. Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson met Jaissle at the training ground on Monday morning after the Aston Villa defeat, according to reports. The club’s mood was described...