Eddie Howe has said that he is still unsure of what the January transfer window may bring for Newcastle. The Toon boss has mentioned the dreaded FFP as a possible hindrance when it comes to adding to his squad, and he is also fearful of upsetting the positive atmosphere that the squad currently possesses.
“We’re in a very different position to where we were last year, when we knew we needed to act and get some good numbers through the door to try to lift the group,” Howe said.
“Now we’re also in a different position with Financial Fair Play – last year we didn’t have a legacy of transfer fees so we had a gap that we could attack.
“I’m not evading the question but we are unsure what we want the window to look like, we’re not sure what’s going to happen.
“You’ve got to be very careful in my position that you don’t do something that unsettles the group but you’ve also got to be mindful of the fact you don’t want a group that is stale. Getting that balance right is crucial.”
Via [BBC.com]
Last January’s transfer window proved to be the catalyst for a miraculous turnaround in form for The Magpies, and further strengthening in the summer has seen the club become top-four challengers. Over £200 Million has been spent on the rejuvenation of the squad so far, but it has come at a cost regarding future spending owing to the Financial Fair Play restrictions.
Unsettling a close-knit squad at St James’ is a worry when it comes to bringing in new faces, but Howe has so far done a brilliant job of signing players with the right attitude and personality. The strong work ethic that has been seen on the pitch under Howe’s reign has been a huge part of the revolution on Tyneside, and there is definitely no room for whingers or primadonnas in the dressing room.
Newcastle have been linked with a host of players as the transfer window approaches. Which ones become a reality is up in the air – but have no doubt – Howe will have done his homework on any possible new arrivals.