Paik Seung Ho was left out of squad for the weekend and midweek so its back to B team for him for now. Lee Kang In is theoretically off to U20 WC but injuries may bring him back into fold.
Tuesday
Son Heung Min -- 2:45 PM vs Brighton on NBCSN - A tough battle for Son who caused the same danger as he did midweek vs Man City's soft defense but displayed fatigue in the final touch as he failed to score on several great chances. On the one hand, the outcome was expected and weekend results made it a non-issue in their pursuit of top four, but given the chances, it felt a bit like a missed opportunity. They go yet again vs a Brighton team that's desperate. I would think Poch rotates a bit but we'll see if Son is saved on the bench as he was vs. Huddersfield or started.
Recap
Ji Dong Won -- His knee injury is still problematic as he missed the match this weekend. A bit frustrating as Augsburg found their offensive rhythm and would have been nice to see Ji get to attack in a more functional side. Schmidt sounded uncertain if Ji would return and given relative safety, perhaps Ji should play it safe until contract issue is more clear. If he's fit, he could be on the bench but we'll see how he reacts to training and what off-pitch circumstances are at play.
Koo Ja Cheol -- Was out with some sort of illness.
Kwon Chang Hoon -- Disappointing as he wasn't even used but Dijon won and moved into playoff spot at least.
Ki Sung Yueng -- He again started and it felt much of the same as previous weeks, though in a twist, Diame came on for Hayden and perhaps reflects increased Rafa trust in Ki even if Ki wasn't playing great towards the end of the match. Ki did have a nice shot off the post that was a micron away from going in, but he also was a bit sloppy with the ball. Certainly Newcastle played with the leash loosened up, but some of the Ki turnovers were not good.
Suk Hyun Jun -- Didn't make squad.
