Football Ramble The LinkedIn Derby
Feb 25, 2026
Newcastle's rotation sparks a lively debate about Nick Woltemade's best role and future. Bodø/Glimt pull off a stunning giant-killing at San Siro and Norway's football boom gets dissected. Controversy brews around Real Madrid-Benfica and wider racism handling in European football. Plus quirky sidelines from Snoop Dogg in Swansea to Joe Hart coaching for a day.
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Newcastle Used Rotation To Manage Fitness And Development
- Newcastle used the comfortable 6-1 first-leg lead to rotate heavily and blood younger players in a low-risk Champions League match.
- Eddie Howe started Nick Woltemade in midfield and brought on several first-teamers late to protect fitness while giving minutes to fringe options.
Nick Woltemade Needs Time To Settle At Newcastle
- Jim Campbell described Nick Woltemade's mixed performances, praising early form but noting decline in final ball and physicality.
- He compared Woltemade to a forward who started too well, suggesting Newcastle and Howe need patience to find his best role.
Bodø/Glimt's Success Is Recruitment And Structure
- Bodø/Glimt's Champions League run reflects excellent recruitment and management rather than huge investment.
- They beat Inter twice including a San Siro win and are a fortress at home, showing smaller clubs can upset elites with structure and scouting.