OPINION
Newcastle United are the only side in the bottom three who have chosen not to change their manager this season – but with Rafael Benitez at the helm it is understandable as to why Mike Ashley has kept from pulling the trigger.
The Spaniard is one of the most revered coaches in world football and it is the quality of the squad at his disposal and the lack of transfer funds available, rather than the manager’s approach, which is letting the Toon Army down.
Benitez is adored by the St James’ Park faithful but with a distinct lack of ambition on show from those at the top on Tyneside the fans cannot be expecting him to remain for too long – not least because there remains serious doubts over his future in the north east.
With a contract that expires this coming summer and no signs that a new deal is close to being penned, the top brass at Newcastle need to be prepared for the exit of a world class coach, which means drawing up a shortlist for his potential replacements.
Really though the list needs to be extremely short with just one name featuring – David Wagner.
The German coach worked miracles with Huddersfield during his time in Yorkshire but is now out of a job after Monday’s shock developments, which saw the Terriers part ways with their boss by “mutual consent.”
? David Wagner has departed his role as Head Coach of #htafc by mutual consent.
The 47-year-old leaves Town after detailed discussions with the Board of Directors, with both parties agreeing this is the correct move for the future of the Club.
?? https://t.co/dDWWOpY9HY (AT) pic.twitter.com/BkeAcalGuJ
— Huddersfield Town (@htafc) January 14, 2019
The manner in which the former Huddersfield man operated at the John Smith’s Stadium was one of utter professionalism and he did not look out of place in the Premier League – which is why he needs to be the top target for Newcastle this summer.
Making contact now and getting the base of a deal sorted in case of Benitez’s exit is an absolute must for the Magpies – regardless of what happens in their relegation battle.
Benitez’s exit is something most Newcastle fans do not want to think about – but Wagner’s arrival would at least help soften the blow.