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About 11 years to the day, Alan Shearer sent a penalty high over the bar. It wasn’t just another rainy August night in the north-east of England. That was the last night of Champions League football at St.James’ Park till now. Serbian minnows Partizan Belgrade sent (then) English giants Newcastle United out in the final qualifying round.
A lot of changes have happened in the interim. Club legends like Shearer and Speed retired, managers came and went by the dozen. Hell, they even survived the Boumsong-Bramble era. They were relegated and came back up again. But, one thing was still missing, a big European night.
In between all this, Mike Ashley took over the club. At first, he seemed interested in the club, only to leave fans disillusioned and disgruntled over the last few seasons. His emphasis on Premier League safety at the expense of a good run in the Cups is now so well known that fans will be genuinely surprised if they beat League Two opposition.
Just when one thought it could not get any worse, came the second half of last season. The Magpies literally sleepwalked through to May, after safety had pretty much been assured by the departing Yohan Cabaye. A top half finish with no permanent signings in the last two transfer windows and suddenly Stoke City seemed to be exciting.
This summer transfer window has been different
However, this summer has been a surprise. Everyone knew investments were needed, especially in the forward line. But signing nine players already (and counting) has been a dream. The signings also look to be classy on paper, and the squad now has enough depth to cover all positions. Getting Daryl Janmaat, Siem deJong and Remy Cabella to Tyneside appear to be a coup. There is also cover for Santon, with Haidara getting up to full fitness, 15 months after a bad tackle on his knee.
The versatile Anita and the returning Ryan Taylor also add meat to the threadbare squad it was at the end of last season. The one big concern is the forward line, who need to fire from the start. With Ben Arfa out of favour and Cisse out of form, it leaves Yoan Gouffran as the sole existing attack minded player. How he gels with Rivierie, Ferrerya and Perez could well dictate Newcastle’s fortunes leading up to Christmas.
Although experts have pointed out that the net spend is not too much if one takes into account the sales of Cabaye and Debuchy, it was pertinent to get bodies in. That in itself is a change in attitude. A couple of more signings and provided they can all blend in, European football may return to St. James’ Park next season.
Now, wonder if the owner really wants it?
