As this “Jeckyll and Hyde” season draws to a close, Eddie Howe will need to start turning his attention towards his first full season in charge. This means not only drawing up plans for acquisitions, but deciding who needs to make way in the squad.
The Chronicle has reported that there are at least eight players who are facing the axe, and looking at the list it’s hard to argue with any of their suggestions. Let’s take a look:
Karl Darlow
Darlow has been a solid second choice ‘keeper over the years, but as we found out at the start of this season, he’s not quite at the level we need, and definitely not up to where we’d like to be going forward. It seems that Middlebrough will be his likely destination.
Ciaran Clark
Left out of Howe’s squad after January to the relief of many a fan, Clark has served us well in the past, helping us gain promotion back in the dark days, but some questionable performances and a ridiculous red card against Norwich (and one in a friendly over in Saudi Arabia) sealed his fate. I don’t think there’ll be many tears shed by the Toon Army if he departs.
Jamal Lewis
An enigma in a Newcastle shirt. Touted by many as an exciting prospect, already an established international, and yet, never really clicked at the Toon. Although he has been hindered by a spotty injury record, it’s hard to imagine he’s going to be given another chance with Dummett signing a new contract and the likely permanent signing of Matt Targett.
Isaac Hayden
Of all the players on this list, Hayden is the one I feel might get a stay of execution. Also left out of Howe’s post-January squad, Hayden was left out due to a long-term injury. We know that on his day, Hayden is a class act, and under Howe’s guidance could step up another level.
Jeff Hendrick
Get out!
Matty Longstaff
Howe seems keen to keep hold of Matty’s older brother, Sean, however an argument could be made that Matty is the better prospect of the two. However with the likes of Shelvey, Joelinton, Guimaraes and Willock, along with the possible arrival of Paqueta and probably another midfielder (Kalvin Phillips?), it wouldn’t be the end of the world to cut both Longstaff brothers from the squad.
Matt Ritchie
A true warrior, extremely vocal and influencial, but I think it’s fair to say his time is up. He’s getting on a bit now and has lost a yard of pace. Time to cash in.
Dwight Gayle
A bench-warmer if ever their was one. Practically stealing a living at Newcastle. He needs to go back to the Championship where he bangs in goals for fun,
Whatever happens, this summer is going to be very exciting for the Toon Army.