Dare we say it looks as if Alan Pardew has survived to fight another season at Newcastle United.
Despite an horrific end to The Premier League campaign Newcastle remain comfortably mid-table and can hopefully look forward to some serious reinforcements to their squad over the summer.
It should not be forgotten that, whilst many Newcastle fans are completely disillusioned with the management of the club, Newcastle enjoyed the highest climb of any club from the previous season – a jump of six places in total from 16th to 10th compared to the final table last year. Progress in statistical terms anyway.
But it’s obvious that Newcastle need more strength in depth, more creativity and more goal threat – especially if Loic Remy leaves the club this summer.
The Guardian mentions today that Newcastle may pursue an interest in Aston Villa’s peripheral striker Darren Bent.
One of those players who draws polemic responses from different areas of the football world, but what is undisputed is his ability to finish.
He’s got a great goalscoring record wherever he’s played – 37 in 79 at Charlton, 25 in 79 at Tottenham, 36 in 63 at Sunderland and 25 in 64 at Villa – and would surely be a solid addition to the Newcastle squad next season even if he did end up warming the bench on many occasions.
He’s someone who can come on and make a difference in a tight game and only needs a half chance to score.
Very much like Jermaine Defoe there may be areas of weakness in his game but he is a superb finisher.
Let’s take a look at the lad in action.
Newcastle fans: would this represent a wise signing or should you be investing in younger talent that can spend five or six years plus at the club?
