There’s no denying Newcastle United need strengthening in several positions, but Rafa Benitez’s genius has led to the Magpies only needing one January signing to survive in the Premier League.
As Newcastle United drew with Swansea City 1-1, it was cleared to see that a prolific striker, would have ensured all three points.
The Magpies had 12 shots when they hosted the Swans on Saturday, only four on target, but their struggling strike force was unable to convert.
Joselu scored Newcastle United’s goal, after coming off the bench, but it was only his fourth of the season after joining the club for £5million in the summer.
The Spaniard replaced Dwight Gayle, who started the game leading the line, but was subbed after failing to score.
The 27-year-old had three clear-cut chances to grab a goal for Newcastle United, but two of his efforts went wide, with the other being headed straight at Lukasz Fabianski in goal.
Gayle’s failure to score on Saturday, meant that he had now gone eight games in a row without scoring and he was hardly prolific before the barren run.
The forward has only managed three goals all season, despite making 20 appearances.
Benitez’s only other current attacking option, as Aleksandar Mitrovic continues to be unfavoured, is Ayoze Perez.
The secondary striker has managed to score four goals in 22 appearances, but unlike Gayle and Joselu, he does offer a workrate that benefits the team.
Perez had an effort denied by Fabianksi in Saturday’s draw, but his presence would lead to goals if there was a clinical striker to pass to.
Even with Newcastle United needing improvements behind the strikeforce, going all the way back to the goalkeeper, the last five games show Benitez can survive with what he’s got in those positions.
The Magpies manager has overseen his side only lose one of their last five league games, however due to their lack of goals, they’ve failed to win any of their last seven league games at St James’ Park.
Benitez has showcased his tactical nous to make his side defensively sound despite in effect being a Champions League manager in charge of Championship quality squad.
Newcastle United are currently only outside of the relegation zone, by three points, due to Benitez’s ability to squeeze out results.
However, the Spaniard can’t get on the pitch and score the goals himself.
With behind the scenes being so tumultuous as Mike Ashley is yet to sell the club, transfers look like being limited.
If that turns out to be the case, all the Magpies need to do is sign the right striker in order for Benitez to turn hard fought draws into well earned wins.
Then hopefully in the summer, Newcastle United’s problems will be solved and they can secure signings across the board to ensure they kick-on next season.
However, all they need now is a striker to ensure they meet this season’s goal.