Newcastle's lack of creativity is becoming a big problem after Leicester condemned the Magpies to another Premier League defeat on Sunday.
That is the verdict of former Liverpool and England midfielder Danny Murphy, who feels it has been a 'gripe' for the Toon Army that their side have not been 'more attacking early in games.'
Goals from James Maddison and Youri Tielemans rendered Andy Carroll's first goal for Newcastle in over 10 years a mere consolation as the Foxes maintained their Premier League title challenge.
But the problems continue to mount for Steve Bruce's side, who have picked up just two points from the last 15 available and just two wins in their last 10 matches in all competitions.
The Magpies maintain an eight point gap between themselves and the bottom three but fears are growing that they could end up being dragged into a relegation battle.
Murphy was left frustrated watching Newcastle on Sunday, as he felt the goals they conceded were 'avoidable'.
And in his analysis on Match of the Day 2, the former Fulham and Tottenham star felt the same problems that have plagued Newcastle all season reared their ugly head again.
"They were avoidable (the goals)," Murphy said.
"Steve Bruce was right, they did give the ball away at times. They weren’t creative and they were a bit disappointing.
"But the two midfielders here, they give the ball away and they are honest, they try to get back and fill the holes. But if you watch now, they have six, they have plenty of numbers but they are ball watching.
"The two central midfielders get drawn towards the ball, they forget about Maddison on the edge of the box and a little bit more nous and wisdom, you look behind you and they can’t play it to Maddison.
"This time Shelvey gets beaten (for the Tielemans goal) with a good bit of skill. Longstaff gets drawn towards the ball but get back and protect your goal.
"The Newcastle back-line was playing against one today, can one of the defenders come out and be cute, be clever and help the midfield? Pick up a runner?
"They all drop off and I am being picky but they weren’t good enough today. Newcastle’s problem is their lack of creativity and lack of goals.
"It’s a mindset thing. When you are used to being well-organised and defensive, when you go behind, it’s difficult to switch the mindset and be attacking.
"Generally, I think it’s been a gripe for Newcastle fans that they are not more attacking early in games."
