After our promotion back to the Premier League was confirmed last month, I picked up on an interesting stat that emerged on Twitter which may just point towards what Newcastle will target going into this summers transfer window.
The Chronicle’s Mark Douglas pointed out that Newcastle’s current squad would be the second youngest in the Premier League, with an average starting age of 25.4.
As Mark alludes to, this suggests Benitez may need to add an influx of experience to his side this summer.
NUFC had the 4th youngest starting XI in the Championship this season. And it would have been the second youngest in Prem Lge. 2/2
— Mark Douglas (@MsiDouglas) May 4, 2017
NUFC average starting age is 25.4. Average starting XI in PL is around 27. I'd say they need a bit more experience.
— Mark Douglas (@MsiDouglas) May 4, 2017
Lascelles (23), Mbemba (22), Yedlin (23), Hayden (22), Mitrovic (22), Perez (23), Dummett (25), Shelvey (25), Aarons (21) Atsu (25) to name a few are all 25 or under, with very few players in our ranks having a wealth of Premier League experience.
Whilst it is refreshing to have a selection of promising young players, it is vital that we have an element of know-how and experience as we prepare to tackle the demands of the top flight next season.
For example, I believe the signing of Pepe Reina, who’s been heavily linked with a reunion with Rafa this summer, would be a shrewd one.
Ashley may have been reluctant to bring ageing players in at Tyneside over recent seasons, but the addition a few old heads may be essential this summer.