Matt Targett has proven to be a brilliant signing by Newcastle United.
He arrived on loan from Aston Villa on transfer deadline day, after Eddie Howe had searched for a left-back all month.
The Lucas Digne fiasco pushed Targett towards St James’ Park, and the Magpies have reaped the rewards. The 26-year-old has been exactly what you want from a full back.
He’s extremely solid in one-on-one situations, he reads the game well and he’s good in possession. His set pieces are decent too, which is an added bonus.
Targett has been a picture of consistency in a black and white shirt. The only game he missed was the one against his parent club Villa.
He’s been so good that a lot of fans have been calling for him to join the club permanently. That’s why there was so much excitement when reports emerged that a £15million fee had already been agreed.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is ‘undecided’ on Matt Targett transfer
But while most supporters made their minds up on Targett pretty quickly, Howe isn’t so sure.
The Athletic report that the Toon manager is ‘undecided’ about signing the defender permanently this summer. They add that head of recruitment Steve Nickson has been looking at alternatives.
That’s quite surprising given how well Targett has done and the reasonable fee he is available for. Then again, it probably makes sense for Howe to keep his options open until it’s finally time to make a decision.
There are still five Toon games to go, and Targett might play so badly that Howe decides to look elsewhere. However, that feels unlikely given how consistent a left-back he is.
Hopefully Howe makes a decision soon, and we see Targett signing a permanent contract at St James’ Park. His loan spell has been excellent, and it would be a joy to see him remain a Magpie long-term.
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