While much of the focus at Newcastle United has been on signings this summer, perhaps there are some internal solutions to help Eddie Howe for the coming season.
The Newcastle manager has already admitted to feeling some frustration in the transfer market amid FFP constraints, potentially forcing Howe to be creative going forward.
Indeed, while not to put too much pressure on them, the young players at the club look as if they can play big parts this season.
Lewis Miley has been raved about during pre-season, while this looks a big few months for Elliot Anderson.
Though slightly further along in his development than Miley, it could be a breakout year for Anderson.
Elliot Anderson impresses Eddie Howe in pre-season training
The 20-year-old is eager to impose himself on first-team proceedings more regularly than last time out, a season in which he was handed only three Premier League starts.
Reportedly likely to start against Aston Villa on the opening weekend, it seems the academy graduate is making a big impact behind the scenes.
Speaking on the NUFC Matters YouTube show, journalist Ben Jacobs shared some insight.
“From what I understand Eddie Howe does see him as part of the plans this season, and also sees him as just about the fittest player in the squad as well,” he said.
“So he’s impressed with his attitude, he’s impressed with his playing time and he’s also impressed with the training and application off the field as well.
“So all signs points to the fact that he will be a part of Newcastle’s squad this season and get starts because obviously Howe is going to have to rotate because of Champions League football.
“At the moment, I would say he’s in contention for that opening game against Aston Villa.”
A potential money saver
Able to operate in both midfield and further forward, getting more out of Anderson would be a real boost for Newcastle.
With money reasonably tight due to FFP, having another player able to cover a number of positions ahead of an increased schedule in the Champions League next season may help lighten the load.
Clearly, to expect him to lead Newcastle’s challenge both domestically and in Europe would be too much but the signs are certainly pointing towards him getting more of a chance to impress.
Going forward, perhaps that could save the club a lot of money in the transfer market.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
