Newcastle’s Transfer Plans Amid Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes’ Struggles Revealed
It’s fair to say Newcastle United aren’t enjoying the best days of left-wingers Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.
That said, the Magpies are not expected to prioritize a new left winger in the upcoming transfer window, according to The Athletic’s Chris Waugh.
In response to a fan question in his mailbag, Waugh wrote that “left wing, as far as I am aware, is not a primary concern for January, given Newcastle have Gordon and Barnes already,” even if they’re far from their optimal level of play.
Waugh added that Anthony Elanga, Jacob Ramsey, Joelinton, and Lewis Hall “can also play on that flank, as could Wissa,” making a signing in that area unlikely.
However, Waugh indicated that “full-back depth is something Newcastle must consider.”
Kieran Trippier, now 35, isn’t expected to contribute offensively as frequently as before, if only because of his aging legs, and Emil Krafth’s playable days seem to be in the rear-view mirror. Dan Burn’s role at left-back, meanwhile, has saved NUFC here and there, but it’s the solution preferred by Howe or most Magpie fans.
According to Waugh, the coaching staff believe Newcastle’s struggles this season have partly stemmed from “the absence of both Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall at the same time.”
Waugh concluded that when Newcastle signed Livramento and Hall in 2023, it was with the intent “to future-proof the full-back departments,” adding that “the decision to acquire Hall in particular was questioned at the time.”
As things stand, however, it’s becoming clear the team needs at least one or two players good enough to push Howe into tougher XI decisions and definitely playable in the event of the current injuries and underperformances affecting those at the position.
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Highest Paying Jobs in the UK 2026 (No Degree Required) – Full Hiring Guide
The UK job market in 2026 is creating strong opportunities for workers without university degrees. Due to labor shortages, rising wages, and demand across key industries, many roles now offer competitive salaries, stable contracts, and visa sponsorship options for qualified workers.
This guide focuses on real, in-demand UK jobs that pay well, require little or no formal education, and are suitable for both UK residents and international applicants.
1. HGV (Truck) Driver Jobs in the UK
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remain among the highest-paid non-degree workers in the UK. Supermarkets, logistics firms, construction companies, and fuel suppliers continue to face driver shortages, pushing wages higher each year.
Salary Range
- £38,000 – £65,000 per year
- Overtime and night shifts can exceed £70,000
Requirements
- UK HGV Class 1 or Class 2 licence
- Driver CPC qualification
- No university degree required
Why This Job Pays Well
Long hours, responsibility, and supply chain importance make HGV driving one of the best-paid manual professions in the UK. Employers often cover training costs.
2. Construction Site Supervisor (Experience-Based)
Construction supervisors oversee daily site operations, safety compliance, and workforce coordination. Many professionals rise into this role through experience rather than formal education.
Salary Range
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year
Requirements
- Construction site experience
- CSCS or SSSTS certification
- No degree required
Construction jobs attract high advertising bids due to insurance, equipment, training, and recruitment demand.
3. Security Control Room Operator
Unlike basic security guard roles, control room operators monitor CCTV systems, coordinate emergency responses, and manage access control for large facilities, airports, and business centers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £50,000 per year
Requirements
- SIA licence
- Basic IT and communication skills
- No academic degree required
4. Warehouse Operations Manager (Promotion-Based)
Many warehouse managers start as pickers or supervisors and move up through performance. E-commerce growth has pushed logistics salaries significantly higher.
Salary Range
- £42,000 – £58,000 per year
Industries Hiring
- Amazon fulfilment centres
- Supermarket distribution hubs
- Import and export warehouses
5. Care Home Manager (NVQ Route)
Care home managers oversee elderly and assisted living facilities. This role follows vocational certification routes rather than university education.
Salary Range
- £45,000 – £65,000 per year
Why It Pays Well
An aging population and staff shortages have pushed salaries higher, especially in private care homes.
6. Roofing & Specialist Trades
Roofers, scaffolders, and specialist trade workers earn premium wages due to physical demand and skill shortages.
Salary Range
- £180 – £300 per day
- Annual income up to £70,000
7. Taxi & Private Hire Drivers (High-Demand Cities)
London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer strong earning potential for licensed private hire drivers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship for UK Jobs
Some UK employers offer sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. While not all jobs qualify, roles in logistics, healthcare support, construction, and technical operations may be eligible depending on employer approval.
How to Apply for High-Paying UK Jobs
- Apply directly on company career websites
- Register with UK recruitment agencies
- Obtain necessary licences before applying
- Prepare a UK-style CV
In 2026, high-paying jobs in the UK are no longer limited to university graduates. With the right skills, certifications, and experience, workers can secure stable, well-paid roles across logistics, construction, healthcare support, and security sectors.
For job seekers aiming to work in the UK or improve their income, focusing on short-term training and high-demand industries remains the smartest path.
