Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has launched a fierce critique of two Newcastle United players
ROY KEANE TEARS INTO NEWCASTLE DUO AFTER BOURNEMOUTH DEFEAT
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has launched a fierce critique of two Newcastle United players, urging the club to move them on immediately following another disappointing result in the Premier League.
Newcastle’s 2-1 defeat at home to AFC Bournemouth on Saturday, April 18, 2026, has intensified scrutiny on the squad, with Keane singling out Anthony Elanga and Jacob Murphy for particularly harsh criticism.Speaking in his role as a pundit, Keane did not hold back. “Move on from them or remain where you are,” he said bluntly, questioning whether the pair possess the quality required to push Newcastle forward.
He added: “I’m not superstitious, but it’s very clear,” suggesting a pattern of underperformance that he believes the club can no longer ignore.The outspoken analyst branded both players as “failures” in the context of Newcastle’s ambitions, arguing that their contributions in recent matches have fallen well below expectations.
His comments come amid growing frustration surrounding the club’s form, with the defeat to Bournemouth marking their eighth loss in eleven games.Elanga, who arrived in a high-profile move from Nottingham Forest, has struggled to make a consistent impact this season, registering just a handful of goals. Murphy, meanwhile, has drifted in and out of the starting lineup, with Keane questioning whether he offers enough at the top level.
Keane’s remarks reflect wider concerns about Newcastle’s attacking options, particularly in wide areas where creativity and end product have been lacking. The Magpies, once seen as contenders for European qualification, now find themselves battling to regain momentum in what has become a difficult campaign.While criticism from pundits is nothing new, Keane’s direct call for immediate departures raises serious questions about the club’s recruitment and squad depth.
Whether Newcastle’s hierarchy shares his view remains to be seen, but with pressure mounting, changes could be on the horizon.For now, the focus shifts to how the team responds on the pitch — and whether the players under fire can silence their critics or risk becoming casualties of a looming squad overhaul.
