Good on Chris Brunt for doing this. Someone needs to tell the other players who are not performing and the coaching staff to get their act together. You would think that Jonny Evans as captain would do it but obviously not. I doubt Alan Pardew will drop him from the squad next week because he needs Brunt in the 18 but it wouldn't surprise me if Brunt's on the bench again. I would personally put him in at left back and drop Gibbs.
I think Brunt must be kept for next season's Championship campaign. I don't think he offers enough in midfield as a left winger anymore (a left winger needs more than great crossing and set-piece delivery) but I would like to see him as first choice left back. His wicked crosses from deep and quality at set-pieces will be very important as well as his ability to defend properly (unless he's against pure pace). I would also like to see him as vice-captain, possibly even captain (I still prefer Dawson) when Evans leaves.
I think Brunt must be kept for next season's Championship campaign. I don't think he offers enough in midfield as a left winger anymore (a left winger needs more than great crossing and set-piece delivery) but I would like to see him as first choice left back. His wicked crosses from deep and quality at set-pieces will be very important as well as his ability to defend properly (unless he's against pure pace). I would also like to see him as vice-captain, possibly even captain (I still prefer Dawson) when Evans leaves.