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Football News: Newcastle Need Quality Not Quantity

Over the last few days I have read a number of articles all complaining about the size of Newcastle United's squad. For me I do not see the issue with the size of the squad itself, it is quite simply a lack of quality throughout.

With the addition of the pair from Nottingham Forest, Jamaal Lascelles and Karl Darlow, it seems like the quantity has just grown, as neither look anywhere near Premier League quality players. Will Darlow really push Tim Krul for a first team place, if he stays of course, or is he being brought in to be a back up?

 

Looking through the squad list, it is clear that the Toon particularly lack quality defensively, with only Daryl Janmaat being a player that would be good enough to attract the interest of other Prem teams. Steven Taylor is far better at play acting than he is at defending, even on those rare moments when he is fit.

Paul Dummett is beginning to establish himself, but he will need help, is Lascelles enough to make the difference between the shambles of last season and a finish in the top half of the table? Not on the evidence of last season, both based on how poor Newcastle and Lascelles performed throughout.

 

Mike Ashley really needs to make good on his promise of investment, as Steve McClaren and his coaches, no matter what they do, will not be able to do much with the team they have inherited. It is a squad full of players that would struggle to get into most Championship sides, such as Sammy Ameobi.

The one bright spot on the horizon is the return of Siem de Jong from his long term injury, which is a huge lift in quality. It is not enough on its own, but it is a step in the right direction. Now Ashley needs to take a few more steps.

Written by Tris Burke June 27 2015 13:01:32