Newcastle United 2021/22: Full Squad Details

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Alright, footy fans! Let's dive deep into the Newcastle United squad from the 2021/22 season. This was a transformative year for the Magpies, marked by a change in ownership and a significant overhaul of the team. Understanding the players who battled it out on the pitch gives us a real sense of the journey they underwent. So, let’s get started!

Goalkeepers

The goalkeeping department saw some solid performances and a reliable presence between the posts. Here’s a rundown:

Martin Dúbravka: The undisputed number one for much of the season, Dúbravka brought experience and consistency. His shot-stopping ability and command of the area were crucial in many games. A seasoned pro, he was often the difference between a draw and a loss. Dúbravka’s leadership in the backline was also invaluable, helping to organize the defense and keep the team focused. His contributions extended beyond just making saves; he was a calming presence that the team relied on.
Karl Darlow: A capable backup, Darlow stepped up when called upon and showed his quality. Every team needs a dependable second choice, and Darlow fit that bill perfectly. He provided solid cover and ensured that the team didn’t suffer a significant drop in performance when Dúbravka was unavailable. Darlow’s professionalism and dedication were commendable, always ready to give his best when the opportunity arose.
Freddie Woodman: Though he didn't feature prominently, Woodman remained a part of the squad, developing his skills behind the scenes. Young keepers need time to grow, and being in a Premier League environment is excellent for that development. Even without much game time, he would have learned a great deal from training alongside experienced players like Dúbravka and Darlow. His time would come, and being patient and working hard was key to his future prospects.

The goalkeeping lineup provided Newcastle with stability and reliability, which are crucial attributes for any team looking to compete in the Premier League. The blend of experience and youth ensured that the team was well-covered in this vital position.

Defenders

The defensive unit saw a mix of experienced campaigners and new arrivals, all vying for a spot in the starting eleven. Let's break it down:

Jamaal Lascelles: As captain, Lascelles was a key figure in the heart of the defense. His leadership and commitment were evident in every game. Lascelles not only organized the backline but also led by example with his tackles and interceptions. His presence was a morale booster for the team, and his experience was vital in navigating tough matches. His ability to read the game and make crucial blocks made him an indispensable part of the squad.
Federico Fernández: An experienced defender, Fernández provided solidity and composure at the back. His aerial ability and tackling were important assets to the team. Fernández's calm demeanor helped to steady the defense, and his experience was particularly useful in challenging situations. He was a reliable player who could always be counted on to put in a solid performance.
Paul Dummett: A hometown hero, Dummett's versatility made him a valuable asset. He could fill in at left-back or in central defense. Dummett’s commitment to the club was unwavering, and he always gave his all when he stepped onto the pitch. His adaptability allowed the manager to rotate the squad and cover various positions effectively. His local roots endeared him to the fans, and he was a popular figure in the dressing room.
Ciaran Clark: Clark was a reliable defender who provided cover and competition for places. His experience and understanding of the game made him a valuable squad member. Clark’s ability to slot in seamlessly when needed ensured that the team’s defensive stability was maintained. He was a consistent performer who could always be relied upon to do his job effectively.
Javier Manquillo: Manquillo offered pace and energy from the right-back position. His ability to get forward and contribute to the attack made him a useful outlet. Manquillo’s energetic displays often provided the team with an extra dimension, and his willingness to work hard was appreciated by both his teammates and the fans.
Jamal Lewis: Lewis brought pace and attacking intent from left-back. His ability to deliver crosses and take on defenders added a new dimension to the team's attack. Lewis’s dynamism and forward-thinking play made him an exciting player to watch, and his contributions were crucial in creating goal-scoring opportunities.
Fabian Schär: Schär's ability to play out from the back and his eye for a pass made him a unique asset in defense. His long-range shooting was also a bonus. Schär’s technical skills and vision allowed the team to build attacks from the back, and his occasional stunning goals made him a fan favorite.
Emil Krafth: Krafth provided a solid and dependable presence at right-back. His defensive capabilities and work rate were highly valued by the team. Krafth’s consistency and reliability made him a trustworthy player who could always be counted on to perform his duties effectively.
Matt Targett: (joined in January 2022) Targett’s arrival bolstered the left-back position with his defensive solidity and crossing ability. His addition was a welcome boost to the squad, providing much-needed stability and quality. Targett quickly established himself as a key player, and his contributions were instrumental in the team’s improved performances.
Dan Burn: (joined in January 2022) A towering presence, Burn added steel and determination to the defense. His aerial prowess and no-nonsense defending made him an instant hit with the fans. Burn’s arrival brought a sense of solidity and resilience to the backline, and his passion and commitment were evident in every game.

The defensive reinforcements in January proved crucial in solidifying Newcastle's backline and turning their season around. The mix of experience and new blood created a more robust and reliable defensive unit.

Midfielders

The midfield was a blend of creativity, steel, and hard work. Here’s a look at the players who controlled the engine room:

Jonjo Shelvey: Shelvey's passing range and vision made him a key playmaker in midfield. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game was crucial for Newcastle. Shelvey’s long-range passes and set-piece deliveries often created scoring opportunities, and his experience was vital in controlling the midfield battles.
Isaac Hayden: Hayden provided defensive steel and energy in midfield, breaking up play and protecting the back four. His work rate and commitment were invaluable to the team. Hayden’s tenacity and ability to win tackles made him a key player in shielding the defense and disrupting the opposition’s attacks.
Jeff Hendrick: Hendrick offered versatility and experience in midfield, capable of playing in various roles. His adaptability and willingness to work hard made him a useful squad member. Hendrick’s ability to fill in where needed ensured that the team had cover in multiple positions.
Sean Longstaff: A local lad, Longstaff brought energy and enthusiasm to the midfield. His box-to-box dynamism and eye for a goal made him a popular figure with the fans. Longstaff’s passion for the club was evident in every game, and his willingness to run and fight for the team made him a valuable asset.
Joe Willock: Willock's arrival (initially on loan) injected pace and creativity into the midfield. His ability to score goals from midfield added a new dimension to the team's attack. Willock’s energy and attacking flair made him an exciting player to watch, and his goals often proved to be crucial in securing valuable points.
Bruno Guimarães: (joined in January 2022) Guimarães quickly established himself as a midfield maestro with his skill, vision, and work rate. His arrival transformed the midfield and provided a significant boost to the team. Guimarães’s technical ability and tactical awareness made him an instant hit with the fans, and his presence in midfield elevated the team’s overall performance.

The addition of Guimarães in January was a game-changer, adding much-needed quality and creativity to the midfield. The blend of experience and new talent revitalized the team's engine room.

Forwards

The forward line saw a mix of pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability. Here’s a look at the attackers:

Callum Wilson: Wilson was the team's main goal threat, with his pace, finishing ability, and intelligent movement. When fit, he was a constant danger to opposition defenses. Wilson’s clinical finishing and ability to create chances made him the team’s most potent attacking weapon. His presence up front kept defenders on their toes, and his goals were crucial in securing victories.
Allan Saint-Maximin: Saint-Maximin's dribbling skills and pace made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. His ability to beat players and create chances was a joy to watch. Saint-Maximin’s flair and unpredictability made him a fan favorite, and his dribbling skills often opened up opportunities for the team.
Dwight Gayle: Gayle provided a goal-scoring option from the bench, with his knack for being in the right place at the right time. His experience and ability to find the net made him a valuable squad member. Gayle’s poacher instincts and ability to score crucial goals made him a useful option when the team needed a spark.
Ryan Fraser: Fraser brought pace and creativity to the attack, with his ability to deliver crosses and take on defenders. His work rate and commitment were also valuable assets. Fraser’s energy and willingness to run at defenders provided the team with an extra attacking dimension.
Joelinton: Joelinton’s transformation into a midfielder during the season was a surprising but effective move. His physicality and work rate made him a valuable asset in the middle of the park. Joelinton’s versatility and willingness to adapt to a new role earned him praise from fans and teammates alike.
Miguel Almirón: Almirón's pace and energy made him a threat on the counter-attack. His work rate and commitment were always appreciated by the fans. Almirón’s tireless running and ability to chase down defenders made him a valuable asset in pressing the opposition.
Chris Wood: (joined in January 2022) Wood’s arrival provided a physical presence and aerial threat up front. His ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play was crucial for the team. Wood’s strength and aerial prowess gave the team a different dimension in attack, and his experience was valuable in leading the line.

The addition of Wood in January added a different dimension to the attack, providing a physical presence and aerial threat. The forward line, with its mix of pace, skill, and physicality, became a more potent force as the season progressed.

Key Takeaways from the 2021/22 Season

The 2021/22 season was a rollercoaster for Newcastle United. The change in ownership brought renewed hope, and the January transfer window saw significant investment in the squad. The new arrivals, particularly Guimarães, Targett, Burn, and Wood, had a transformative effect on the team's performance. Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, Newcastle climbed away from the relegation zone and finished the season strongly.

Key improvements included:

Defensive Solidity: The additions in defense shored up what was a leaky backline.
Midfield Control: Guimarães’ arrival brought a new level of quality and control to the midfield.
Tactical Flexibility: Eddie Howe's tactical nous allowed the team to adapt and overcome various challenges.

Overall, the 2021/22 season was one of transition and transformation for Newcastle United. The squad overhaul and tactical adjustments laid the foundation for future success. The fans, ever loyal, had plenty to cheer about as they looked forward to a brighter future under new ownership and a revitalized team. What a season, eh guys!