Eddie Howe is prepared to cut Ciaran Clark, Dwight Gayle and Jeff Hendrick from his 25-man squad to make way for new January arrivals, according to new reports.
CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs claims that our new manager is willing to be ruthless and wield the axe on several fringe players deemed not good enough for his first-team squad.
The report claims that all three players are expected to leave this month rather than linger around our Benton base like a bad smell, with Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos also said to be a target.
A deal for the Colombian striker – who has 13 goals to his name this season – would cost around £20million and comes at a time when we are in desperate need for a striker following a calf injury to Callum Wilson.
Everton and Leicester are also credited with an interest in the 25-year-old; who was linked with a move to Tyneside during Steve Bruce’s spell in charge.
I don’t think many Toon fans will be too upset to see the aforementioned trio leave the club. All three are no longer good enough for the Premier League, not to mention the fact their departures could allow for more quality additions like Kieran Trippier.
Clark and Gayle have served us well, playing a key part in our promotion back to the top flight under Rafa Benitez, but it may suit all parties if both they and Hendrick were moved on this month.
Morelos is a donkey, he will not cut it in the premiership
JW(Quote)
Agree Morales certainly not the answer
PHILIP RENNER(Quote)
Agree with the comments above about Morales – not good enough.
Also agree that Hendrick and and Gayle should be on their way but don’t agree that Clark should go. He’s still got a year or two left in him – he’s just having a rough patch.
We get a keeper off the squad, lose Longstaff Senior, I’d also move Ritchie and Lascelles on while they still have resale value, and that makes space for 6.
Personally I’d say ditch Fraser as well. I just don’t buy into his fan club. I think he gets a free pass because he’s small, and we almost feel sorry for him having to play with the big boys. I think Howe will dump him if he gets the chance.
Freddd(Quote)
Since Howe came in he has been our most creative attacking outlet so old be reluctant to let him leave, let’s start by losing either Gillespie or Woodman, Clarke, Lascelles, Ritchie, Hendrick and Gayle and we have freed up 6 spaces and none of them will be missed.
David(Quote)