Over the summer transer window, Newcastle United lost Isak, Wilson, Longstaff and Dubravka, but spent over £200m to bring in Ramsdale, Thiaw, Ramsey, Elanga, Woltemade and Wissa.
Our striker department was transformed, we signed a new right winger, another midfielder, an athletic centre-back and a goalkeeper to compete with Pope and replace Dubravka.
But one area that was neglected is at full-back, where out lack of depth down both flanks has cost us dearly so far this season.
When fit, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall are superb options with the quality to be future England regulars. However, the lack of depth is an issue down both flanks, and their absence has impacted us massively at both ends of the pitch, seeing us miss their energy, technical ability and dynamism at both ends of the pitch.
Filling in for them have been a 33-year-old Dan Burn, who admitted last season he’s no longer comfortable at left-back, and a 35-year-old Kieran Trippier who has know-how but no longer the legs to get up and down the line.
Right-back
Not only is Trippier out of contract next summer, Emil Krafth is also approaching the final six months of his deal on Tyneside.
New deals for either are in the balance, at best, while Harrison Ashby is not up to it and out of Howe’s first team plans. Under-21 talent Leo Shahar may become an option in the future, but he needs time.
Left-back
At 33 and gaining weight last season to help him become more dominant at centre-back, Burn no longer a suitable option to fill in for Hall.
Matt Targett out of contract this summer and will leave when his loan spell at Middlesbrough ends, Lloyd Kelly has not been replaced and we can’t rely on Tino covering Hall when he’s our best right-back.
Irish talent Alex Murphy may be an option in time, but little to suggest he’s ready to be Hall’s cover yet.
Of course, it’s tricky to bring in quality options willing to cover two of England’s best full-back talents, but they are vital positions to address over the coming transfer windows.
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