It’s a hugely important season for Newcastle United.
The third full season of PIF ownership at Newcastle brings its own kind of pressure.
Indeed, where the first full year was something of a free-hit for Eddie Howe and his side, last time out proved more difficult.
There were of course mitigating factors including a freakish injury crisis and Howe certainly had enough credit in the bank to be backed by the owners.
Failure to improve this year, however, would surely provoke a different kind of response.
Howe is said to have been told by PIF that Newcastle must improve, albeit that has not been made any easier a task during a relatively quiet summer transfer window.
Still, it’s not only Howe who may come under pressure this season.
Pundit Paul Robinson believes a certain Sandro Tonali has an awful lot to prove.
Paul Robinson says Sandro Tonali now has a huge point to prove at Newcastle
The former England goalkeeper turned pundit has suggested Tonali – who will soon be back in action for Newcastle following a lengthy ban due to betting breaches – needs to make a mark upon his return.
He told the Premier League Kick-off on BBC Sport: “I think he has got a huge point to prove to himself.
“Listen, the manager stood by him, the club have stood by him, he has had a lot of support up there, in the North East from his manager, from the coaching staff, from the club, in what was a very, very difficult situation for him personally, for him off the field. The club have stood by him, so I think he has got a debt of gratitude that he will obviously be very, very keen to repay.”
Newcastle are really excited about Sandro Tonali this season
Tonali’s imminent return to the fold is believed to be exciting figures inside Newcastle.
They are thought to view the Italian and the fit-again Joe Willock as being like new signings, offering Howe many more options in midfield.
With a reduced schedule by way of failing to qualify for Europe, the midfield actually feels very strong going into this season.
While Tonali will need to impress given how long he’s been out, the sheer number of exciting options in that area of the squad should lift the demands on him somewhat.
Certainly, all the conditions are there for him to improve.
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