OPINION
When describing a Premier League side’s defence, the last word you would want to use is makeshift.
In order to be a successful side, a solid defence is just as important as a dangerous free-scoring attack. Despite having many injuries in their defensive ranks, Newcastle United still managed to keep 11 clean-sheets – a record they place in the top seven of the Premier League for.
That isn’t bad for a back-five under Rafael Benitez that has suffered many defensive woes this season, with Florian Lejeune, DeAndre Yedlin and Paul Dummett being affected by injuries.
Add to that a makeshift full-back in Matt Ritchie who has been outstanding in both attack and defence, and you can see why the Magpies have been linked with defensive moves.
Newcastle were reported by Sabah Spor to be interested in West Brom defender Kieran Gibbs, someone they would need to battle Fenerbahce for.
The Turkish outlet reported that it would take a fee of £3.1million for the former Arsenal man’s signature and Newcastle should turn their focus to bigger targets and let the Turkish club sign the 29-year-old.
Gibbs endured an average season in the Championship and Benitez must set his sights higher than the Baggies defender, who failed in his side’s bid for promotion last season. At 29-years-old, Gibbs wouldn’t offer much to Benitez, who needs to bring in a more consistent performer for next season.
Newcastle would be much better off targeting a younger defender, such as Loris Benito, 27, who was recently linked with a move to the club from Switzerland and also offers recent Champions League experience.
Once upon a time Gibbs would have been the sort of signing Newcastle should have gone for but after a bang average Championship campaign, there are bound to be better options out there than the 10-cap England international.