OPINION
If there is anybody who knows what it is like to be in Rafael Benitez’ shoes at Newcastle United, it is their former boss Alan Pardew.
Benitez has now got a massive mountain to climb after the Magpies were subjected to yet another defeat at the hands of Brighton, with Beram Kayal proving to be the difference between the two sides.
The Spaniard now faces the monumental task of guiding United out of the bottom three and into Premier League safety, but that will only be possible if he is given the required funds in January.
Newcastle must heed the advice of Pardew, who explained how the club can transform their season by doing just one thing.
“We got to a situation in maybe my third season at Newcastle where we really needed help in January. I said to Mike ‘I think we’re in big danger here’ and he came to the fore, we signed four or five players and it transformed our season,” he told Sky Sports’ Goals on Sunday.
“I think Rafa is going to be in that position, the way it looks at the moment, that he is going to need an influx of new blood into that team.
“It is a difficult situation where he’s looking, and has made it quite public that he is willing to sell the football club. I think in January, Mike will have to have a long sit down with Rafa and come up with a plan.”
As difficult as it may seem to happen, this is exactly what Benitez needs to do in order to save the club’s season – as the other option will just result in their relegation.
United are desperate at the moment, and this may just be their last hope to transform their season in a blink of an eye.
It will remain to be seen whether Mike Ashley will part ways with a huge chunk of his cash – but if Pardew’s experience is anything to go by, then it is definitely worth a shot.
Surely the owner can see for himself what a dire mess his club are in?
Nevertheless, sitting down with one another and actually creating a plan of action for January is definitely what is needed to turn their campaign on its head – and Newcastle would be wise to heed the words of Pardew.