,There was a mixed reaction from Newcastle fans at the Transfer Tavern, after the appointment of Rafa Benitez at St James’ Park back in March.
The Spaniard was left only 11 games to rescue the Magpies from relegation in what seemed an almost unmountable feat – even for a manager of the former Madrid and Liverpool man’s calibre.
Newcastle have certainly had a upturn in fortunes since Benitez took the helm on Tyneside, with wins against Swansea and Crystal Palace as well as draws at both Manchester City and Liverpool.
Disappointing results at Aston Villa, and a 3-2 loss to relegation rivals Norwich however have left Benitez’s side’s fate in the hands of their bitter rivals Sunderland – who now need only 3 points from 2 games to secure Premier League football next season.
Despite the appointment of the former Champion’s League winner; it all seemed too little too late for a side who had been below par all season and showed no signs of improving under former boss Steve McClaren.
Relegation now seems imminent and the Toon Army are wondering what may have been if the switch had been made earlier in the year.
A win for the Black Cats against Everton on Wednesday night would doom Newcastle to Championship football next season. If the club is to repeat the feat of 2010 – where Chris Hughton led his side to the title and of course promotion the season directly after being relegated – there must be changes.
Players will come and of course, players will go. So who have been the prime suspects in Newcastle’s demise and should exit St James’ with their face to floor? Our landlord here in the Transfer Tavern has identified FOUR players who Newcastle fans need to say goodbye to in the summer….
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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE FOUR PLAYERS!
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