Newcastle United managed to get just the one singing across the line in the last transfer window, with Joe Willock joining on loan from Arsenal.
The 21-year-old completed a move to St. James’ Park after struggling for game time at the Emirates Stadium, and hopes are high among Toon fans that he can improve the midfield.
There has been a real lack of star quality in the middle of the park this term.
Isaac Hayden gives his all and fans are largely satisfied with the 25-year-old, but beyond him it’s all been very disappointing.
Creativity and productivity have been in short supply, and Willock will be tasked with making things happen from those deeper positions.
A few names were linked with Newcastle before Willock, and one man whose name cropped up a few times, was Jesse Lingard.
The England international was reported by Sky Sports to have been approached by Newcastle officials, but a move did not materialise and on he instead headed to West Ham United.
Perhaps obviously, Lingard enjoyed a superb debut for the Hammers last night, scoring twice against an in-form Aston Villa side.
According to WhoScored, the 28-year-old had five shots against Dean Smith’s side with four of those coming in the first 20 minutes, suggesting he is absolutely itching to make a difference for his new club.
Willock under early pressure?
Lingard’s performance last night looked like it was coming from a man who was overjoyed to be playing football again.
The £100,000-a-week player (Times) looked determined to make an impression, and he looked dangerous for the Irons.
His showing potentially puts Willock under a bit of early pressure at Newcastle.
Clearly the Magpies had some interest in signing the more experienced Lingard, but couldn’t get a deal done.
Willock is in, and hopefully the star can show there need not be any regrets over the Manchester United man.
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