As players returned for their first day of pre-season, Colback and Lazaar, along with Rolando Aarons, Dwight Gayle and Jacob Murphy were all back at the Toon training ground following loan spells last season.
The lack of a single signing and the loss of our talismanic manager, means players that were deemed not good enough last season could all have a clean slate at the start of this one.
The thought of the previously unwanted group staking a claim for a first team spot is another indication – were one needed – of a club moving in the wrong direction under Mike Ashley.
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A club moving in the wrong direction
There are a number of glaring signs that we are regressing in comparison to rivals who are moving forward: the lack of ambition from the owner; the lack of investment in revamping the training facilities; allowing Rafa to leave; selling players without a manager in place; and handing the likes of Colback a fresh start.
It does not bode well for the season ahead, and fans are right to be worried.
At this present time, and with the complete shambles at St James’ Park, it is hard to see three teams that will finish below us in the Premier League this season.
Things could change in the coming days, but time is undoubtedly running out.