Eddie Howe knew immediate action was necessary. As the half-time whistle approached at Molineux, the Newcastle United manager made quick notes and prepared to send Joe Willock, Sandro Tonali, and Harvey Barnes into the game.
“I’m always ready to make early changes if things aren’t working, and today was no exception,” Howe said. “We needed to inject some energy and a new dynamic into the team.”
Indeed, one of the changes was forced due to Alexander Isak’s eye issue, but Newcastle needed a spark after Mario Lemina’s first-half goal. The substitutions ultimately proved crucial, with Barnes scoring a spectacular winner shortly after Fabian Schar equalized.
Substitutes often get a bad rap—Arsenal calls them “impacters,” and South Africa’s rugby team values their “bomb squad”—but Barnes showcased the team-first mentality that fuels Newcastle’s success under Howe.
Barnes, who had scored in his first league start of the season against Spurs, could have been disheartened after being dropped at Molineux. Instead, he was eager to make a difference. “When you come on with the team behind and needing a goal, you have to take it upon yourself to change the game,” Barnes said after the 2-1 win.
With his attitude, it’s no wonder Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran is the only player with more goals as a substitute in the Premier League since Barnes joined Newcastle last summer. Barnes’ stunning 80th-minute goal was reminiscent of the great David Ginola, fittingly scored in Newcastle’s new Entertainers-inspired away kit.
Newcastle’s impressive 10 points from 12 is notable given they haven’t hit their stride. The contributions from their substitutes, including Kieran Trippier and Lloyd Kelly at Wolves, have been vital. This trend continues with key impacts from players like Emil Krafth, Trippier, Barnes, and Jacob Murphy in earlier games.
Keeping these players fit is crucial, especially since Newcastle couldn’t add a game-changer during a challenging transfer window. Last season’s injury issues—where player availability dropped to 55%—emphasized the need for improved fitness. James Bunce, the new performance director, is crucial in this effort. His positive impact has been so significant that he even appeared in the team photo after the Wolves win.
With players like Sven Botman, Lewis Miley, and Callum Wilson still to return, maintaining fitness will be key to Newcastle’s season. The ability to rely on players like Barnes and Wilson, who made a difference last season, or newcomers like Tino Livramento and Alexander Isak, will be essential. Last season, injuries forced Howe into using depleted benches, and in critical moments, such as against Manchester City, the lack of fresh legs was evident. This season, however, Newcastle will have genuine game-changers ready to step in when needed.
