As Newcastle prepare for the final game at St James Park tonight, all thoughts must turn to what the new owners plans are for the first full new season in charge.
Gone are the ghosts of the Ashley and Bruce era, it is now time for both the Owners Consortium and Eddie Howe to set out their stalls and show they possess much more ambition, foresight, and passion than the last custodian of this mighty club.
All the signs are there that we are dealing with a different ethos and culture. The Consortium, on early indications seem to have a good grip on recruitment, fan engagement and communication, something that was previously lacking. With the appointment of Dan Ashworth as “Technical Director of Football” it also seems the final piece in the footballing recruitment jigsaw is in place. No doubt, there is already a target list of new players in critical areas of the squad that definitely requires improvement if Newcastle want to push on next season.
New players are required in midfield, defence, and controversially even a goal keeper with many wondering if Dubravka can cut it! Some may also look at the injury record of the newly returned Callum Wilson and surmise we need further investment up front. The Man City game saw the return of both Callum Wilson and Kieran Trippier, and no doubt they will figure heavily in the managers thoughts for next season however Howe will bee seeking better quality across the squad and the opportunity to shift some dead wood.
With the right level of financial backing and astute selection of new players, it is expected Newcastle should be improving on the current mid table position and even may be knocking on the doors of European football in a couple of years.