With only 11 games played, it is perhaps a little too early to make too many bold statements on Newcastle United’s fate this season, and yet the next five days feels like a hugely important period for Eddie Howe’s men.
It’s difficult to assess United’s form ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash with Benfica, but the plain facts are that they have only won four matches in the first two months of the season. And that, in anyone’s book, is not enough.
Even those wins have not kickstarted the season. While the margin of victory over Union Saint Gilloise and Bradford City were comfortable, the truth is that the two Premier League successes cames against struggling Wolves and Nottingham Forest, and were hardly convincing.
On the flip side, Newcastle deserved something from that dramatic 3-2 defeat to Liverpool, and the result against Barcelona could have been very different had they taken their chances. On both occasions, they came up short.
They were second best against Arsenal, Bournemouth and Brighton, certainly in the first half, and never truly looked like breaking down Aston Villa and Leeds United.
There have been valid reasons for some elements of the sluggish start, of course. The lack of a recognised striker undoubtedly impacted the early stalemates, while injuries have meant we’ve barely seen summer signing Jacob Ramsey – while Yoane Wissa is yet to pull on a Newcastle shirt. That’s almost £100m worth of talent who have been unable to make an impression to date.
Simiiarly, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall’s absences have had a huge effect on Howe’s ability to rotate his side. The two full-backs are an important part of how United play, and while Kieran Trippier and Dan Burn have maintained the high standards, Newcastle have missed the England pair.
Howe has repeated how he feels his side probably deserve a few more points that they currently have on the board, and while he has a point, the time has come for his side to start delivering reguarly.
Ask yourself this . . . how often have Newcastle played really well this season? The second half vs Liverpool? Bradford and Union certainly, but against opposition they should beat comfortably. In patches against Forest and Brighton?
There have been flashes and big moments. Anthony Gordon’s goal against Barcelona was a stunning team effort, as was Nick Woltemade’s leveller at Brighton, with the superb finish overshadowing the build-up.
There has also been much to be encouraged by. The defence has been excellent, with Malick Thiaw emerging as an outstanding signing, and all four centre-backs – Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, Thiaw and Burn – contributing some top-class displays. Behind them, Nick Pope’s levels have risen even higher with the new competition from Aaron Ramsdale.
Woltemade has lit up the Premier League and the joy over what he has done so far is only outstripped by the excitement of what he will do once his team-mates really get to grips with the way he plays.
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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.
