Newcastle United's performance in their 0-0 draw with Brighton did not impress Alan Shearer.
The Magpies were desperate for long spells of the first half against the Seagulls and although they improved in the second period, they did not do enough to stamp their authority on a very winnable game.
United had chances to win but they had far inferior possession statistics and were indebted to Fabian Schar for keeping out Aaron Mooy's shot. Even the late introduction of Andy Carroll to attempt to spark the team into life didn't work.
And, delivering his verdict on Match of the Day, Magpies' all-time top goalscorer admitted that he was concerned about the confidence of Miguel Almiron - who missed another chance to open his black and white account.
Analysing the match, Shearer said of his former side: “You can see why both of these teams are struggling to score. I thought it was a poor game. Brighton were the better team, Newcastle were really poor.
“But still had two very, very good chances they should have scored from. The first one Almiron had no confidence whatsoever. I never fancied him to score. He desperately needs a goal, still hasn’t scored.
“And then Joelinton finds himself eight yards out and with a free header (from a corner). He should score.”
