The prevalent stereotype that Newcastle’s defence will always be the undoing of our side, irrespective of circumstance, is one that is inexorably fading, albeit painfully slowly.

Statistically, our defence wasn’t quite as tight as a colander last season. By the same token however, neither was it excessively leaky, yet goals aside, the defence’s problems were not confined to the defence with loss of possession, poor distribution and the inability to turn defence into attack seriously undermining their statistical status.

Despite Shearer’s retirement, Ameobi’s height may tempt some of the less thoughtful or unable of our defenders to view, and indeed, treat him as our targetman who will win headers all day long, holding up the ball to lay off for charging midfielders. Ameobi’s unflinching commitment will be a most valuable asset should this be the case and he will in part be successful, however his style of play is not best suited to this type of role.

This would also see our excellent midfield rendered redundant. Unfortunately, such a trend is hard to quantify with anything more than opinionated assertions, so this string of articles aims to rather mischievously lay the blame at the feet of individuals for the goals Newcastle concede. Admittedly, this is a subjective endeavour that openly admits that extenuating circumstances are not considered. For example, if a centre-back spends 89 minutes doing the work of himself and his hopeless full-back, and is run ragged in the process, if he errs for the conceded goal trying to cover for his companion, then he will be at least partly culpable. Taking one for the team they call it. It’s a cruel game.

Rule 1: Each goal shall be considered on their own merit.

Game 1: Wigan Athletic (h)

Goal 1: Lee McCulloch (Wigan Athletic)

Blame: Stephen Carr

Reason: An incompetent header vertically in the air, reminiscent of that in our home leg against Feyenoord a few seasons back, surrendered possession around the box which ultimately lead to a great strike on target.