Despite having lost just one game thus far this season (a 4-0 thrashing from Manchester City), I think it’s fair to say that all things are not well with Newcastle United.
Recent wins over Fulham and Morecambe may have elevated the Magpies, but a summer of stagnation has put the dampeners on fan’s spirit-levels.
It’s especially disappointing given the kind of targets Newcastle were chasing throughout the summer. After last year’s performances, the fans needed a pick-me-up. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to come.
Alan Pardew targeted players like Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis, Chelsea star (and former Newcastle ace) Demba Ba and Blackpool winger Thomas Ince.
All three of these players would have improve the club significantly. I’d have been particularly excited to see Ba and Ince join the club, given the Magpies lack of threat going forward.
Too often last season, Newcastle failed to impose themselves on opposition teams. Given the club’s unwillingness to spend, it’s hard to see things changing this season.
Some may claim that the bulk of Newcastle’s spending was done last January. That’s as may be, but it’s clear that the signings have not had the desired effect. Whilst the new players deserve time to adapt and gel with the rest of the team, it’s hard to see them guiding the Toon to a top six finish.
Yet that’s surely where Alan Pardew should be aiming. Newcastle have a rich history and deserve to be competing at the very top level. That’s why it’s depressing to see the club embracing it’s own stagnation.
Former Newcastle star, Tommy Cassidy recently took to TalkSport to decry his former club’s current situation:
“In my opinion they needed two strikers and at least another midfield player, but they haven’t got them in, and it’s going to be a long struggle this season for them.”
“They’re in danger of going down. I hope they don’t, obviously, because the fans had enough of the relegation dogfight last season and they don’t deserve that. Newcastle United supporters are so loyal to the club, but it’s going to be a long, hard nine months.”
To say that Newcastle could be embroiled in a relegation battle may be a step to far. But, things certainly don’t look too good for Alan Pardew and co. Given the lack of fire-power upfront, Newcastle will struggle to carve out the results they need this season.
The only hope will be making it to January and purchasing reinforcements then. By then, however, it may already be too late. Let’s hope that Tommy Cassidy is being needlessly pessimistic.
What’s your take? Could Newcastle end up in a relegation battle this season?
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