Danny Murphy amazed by Aston Villa moment with Morgan Rogers in controversy vs Newcastle United
Morgan Rogers had everyone fooled before Tammy Abraham scored for Aston Villa against Newcastle United in the FA Cup on Saturday.
Villa Park hosts Eddie Howe’s team in the fourth round of the competition on 14 February, with the Lions making several changes to their starting lineup.
In the 14th minute, the English striker found the back of the net after a clever set-piece routine involving Morgan Rogers and Douglas Luiz, with the Brazilian midfielder eventually chipping the ball over the Magpies’ defence.
Former Liverpool ace Danny Murphy thought the 23-year-old attacking midfielder would be stepping up to take the free-kick, and that’s what it certainly looked like before the Juventus loanee got the assist, with the Birmingham club taking a 1-0 advantage into the break.
Tammy Abraham offside in Aston Villa opener vs Newcastle United
Abraham has returned to the team against Newcastle, with Emery opting for an almost completely different defensive line.
It was a fast start to the game at Villa Park, and it shouldn’t be surprising given the evident quality on the pitch for both teams.
However, the Lions were arguably lucky to take the lead in the manner that they did, with the England international seemingly in an offside position when the ball was played to him.
Speaking on BBC One, Murphy said, “What a brilliant free-kick, so creative. You think Rogers is going to step up, but I think Abraham is going to be offside. It should have been offside, but there’s no VAR.”
Howe’s team aren’t to be taken lightly despite their struggles in the Premier League this season, as the Magpies sit 10th in the table, and with Marco Bizot sent off, it remains to be seen how the hosts will cope.
The Tyneside outfit got back to winning ways after a resolute display against Tottenham away from home on 10 February, and it’s clear that the Spanish manager has got to demand more from his players after the break.
Douglas Luiz gives Unai Emery half-time dilemma at Villa Park
Douglas Luiz returned to Villa on loan in the winter transfer window after his struggles at Juventus and Nottingham Forest.
The Brazilian midfielder has had no time to settle in and has gone straight into the firing line due to the Villans’ fitness issues in the middle of the park.
In the opening four minutes against Newcastle, Luiz picked up a yellow card and is surely walking a tightrope going into the second half.
Emery may have a decision to make regarding the 27-year-old’s substitution despite his assist for Abraham’s opener.
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