38 points from 32 games; it looks like Newcastle United are more or less safe and will be in the Premier League come May. The Magpies had a tough start and but Rafa Benitez has managed to squeeze resources and ensure the squad has performed to its potential. Considering quite a few branded them as relegation candidates, it just shows the work the manager and the players have done so far this season.
It’s not over though. The Summer will be a crucial period and a time where the club will have to spend more money on talented players. We’ve already seen what Benitez can deliver with minimal resources, so if the club can back him, they Magpies could challenge for the Europa League spots.
With a few months to go before the transfer window reopens, there’s plenty of news about the players the club could go after the summer transfer window and the latest name is Championship star, Tom Cairney.
At 27, Cairney has sort of been a late bloomer after managing a couple of consistent seasons with Fulham. This season, he has been a key performer in central midfield. Last summer, even a £20 million bid wasn’t enough to land the midfielder and reports indicate the club could return for him in a few months should the Cottagers fail in their promotion bid.
Cairney – A good option for Newcastle
Since moving to Fulham from Blackburn, Cairney has improved every season and he is the best possible shape and form to move to the Premier League. The Championship’s rugged nature helps you in certain aspects of the game but Cairney’s ability on the ball has elevated him to a level which is simply too good for the Championship.
A player who can play both as a number 10 or a number 8, Cairney is noted for his good passing ability and his technique on the ball. We don’t have too many midfielders who can dribble the ball as well as Cairney. Every time he gets the ball, his composure on the ball is incredible as he can look up and pick a pass.
His pass accuracy so far this season stands at an astounding 91.5% and Newcastle could do with a player like who him who can drive forward and not lose the ball at the same time. He has mustered 4 goals and 5 assists so far which is a pretty good return for a midfielder playing a deeper role.
He’d perhaps cost somewhere around £25 million and considering his talent and the present-day market, that’s a pretty decent fee.