While a lack of big money transfers this summer is no doubt frustrating for Newcastle, there is little reason as to why Eddie Howe’s side cannot improve this time around.
They face a reduced schedule after missing out on European football and have kept all of Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon despite links with moves away.
Sandro Tonali will be back in action later this month following the conclusion of a ten-month ban from football and key players are returning from injury.
Joelinton, Nick Pope, Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock all missed significant portions of the season, so having them available will be a major boost.
Indeed, there’s also a core of young players getting better under Howe’s watch.
Lewis Hall is starting to impress following a difficult start to life on Tyneside, while Tino Livramento has another year of experience under his belt.
