It promises to be a huge few months for Newcastle United, as we face 12 games in the next two months to determine where we’ll finish in our first full season under Eddie Howe and new owners.
Our top four push could go down to the wire, but wondering what European competition we’ll end up in feels like a luxury when compared to the constant relegation battles under Mike Ashley.
We need to enjoy the ride and look forward to an exciting future, so here’s six things to look forward to for us Newcastle fans.
1. Ambitious signings on the horizon
Speaking after our cup final defeat, Amanda Staveley vowed to bring an array of trophies to Tyneside. You don’t make those sort of claims if you aren’t planning to invest heavily into the first-team squad.
It remains to be seen just how much we’ll be able to spend this summer. However, recent reports suggest a centre-back to compete with Fabian Schar, attacking left-back, two midfielders, a winger and a striker look set to be targeted.
Whether it’s another Isak-esque gem from Europe, a Brazilian to join Bruno or a Premier League proven James Maddison, I back our recruitment team to add more quality to our ever-improving XI.
2. The return of European football
Our last venture in Europe was in April 2013, where a 1-1 draw with Benfica saw us exit the Europa League at the quarter final stage at St James’ Park.
10 years on, we look almost certain to secure European football in some capacity; whether that’s the Champions League, the Europa League or the Europa Conference League. It may be the former that would transform our ability to attract top players, but magical nights at St James’ Park look set return in 2023/24.
3. St James’ Park plans
After reclaiming the Strawberry place site last month, it’s been well documented that Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi have been working on expansion plans at St James’ Park; which feels much needed given the demand for tickets.
Not only that, there’s talk of a fanzone being created behind the Gallowgate End, while the introduction of safe-standing could boost the atmosphere within the stadium.
4. Exciting talents will emerge
It will take time to develop our Academy – which has been underperforming for years – but it’s clear that Dan Ashworth is determined to improve the pathway from youth level to first-team.
Not only could we see more Elliot Anderson’s emerge following the restructure, it’s clear we are searching all over the globe for the best young talents. Garang Kuol has arrived from Australia and many more will follow. The club are advertising for new scouts – who’ll cover 19 different countries across South American and Europe – while a host of exciting Brazilian’s continue to be watched.
5. New opportunities and increased engagement
Our investment in the Women’s team has been great to see, while new opportunities are also being explored in every direction. Just look at the Amazon documentary set to be released this summer and the multi-club model Amanda Staveley is pursuing.
The club now communicates with fans but also connects in a way we’ve not seen for decades. Whether it’s Darren Eales singing Toon songs with fans outside Wembley, Mehrdad Ghodoussi and Jamie Reuben’s Trafalgar Square visit and Amanda Staveley’s passion, energy and presence, we are now a shadow of Mike Ashley’s soulless ghost ship.
6. A team to be excited about
Last but not least, we have an ever-evolving team and manager who “won’t rest” until he brings success to Newcastle; who’ve been backed to become top four regulars by https://kasynoonline-automaty.com/kasyno-online-skrill/.
This season we’ve been outstanding defensively – no team has conceded fewer goals – and have developed a high-pressing style fans thrive off, but Howe has also talked up his plans to have more possession and score more goals. If we can add more quality to a spine currently consisting of Pope, Botman, Trippier, Bruno and Isak, we’ll be hard to stop.
