Premier League Preview: Newcastle

After their outstanding 5th place two years ago, Newcastle struggled last year. Their Europa League run hampered their League form leaving them fighting off relegation throughout much of the year. This season with no European commitments to think about, they will be looking to retain a spot in the top half of the table.

Newcastle's summer has been fairly quiet in terms of transfers, with the main drama being focused on Papiss Cisse and his initial unwillingness to wear the shirt due to the sponsor, 'Wonga', clashing with religious beliefs. However with this sorted, Newcastle's only signing of note has been the loan signing of, unsurprisingly, the Frenchman Loic Remy. With a young squad, Newcastle does not need a lot of strengthening but a couple more players could prove handy before the 2 September deadline.

There can be little doubt that Newcastle will improve this year. Their European run hampered them massively last season and Pardew will be looking for a much stronger season from his squad. Their pre-season wasn't perfect but certainly would have left Pardew feeling relatively confident in his squad depth for the upcoming season. Newcastle will by no means be among the front runners but they might push for a top half finish if they can string a solid group of results together.


Key Man: Hatem Ben Arfa - Despite suffering from frequent injuries Ben Arfa is still a key player for Newcastle. His ability on the ball is second-to-none and if Newcastle can get a full season out of him they can definitely push into the top half. Ben Arfa has the ability to make something happen from nothing and that unique attribute makes him a key man.

One to Watch: Davide Santon - As a young full-back Santon is maturing every year and has established himself as a regular starter in the Newcastle side. I think this is the year he starts to stand out as the impressive talent he is. He is a very attacking full-back and with a few more assists could develop into one of the best in the league.


Best Summer Signing: Loic Remy - Not a particularly taxing choice as he is the only first team signing but nevertheless Remy is a good signing. His pace will provide something different up front and he is a nice striker to accompany Cisse.

Last Season: 16th

Pre-Season Prediction: 12th - An improved season for Newcastle but nowhere near where they were two seasons ago.