Newcastle fans here in the Tavern are hoping that their side can secure a future in the Premier League, after a less than convincing first season back in the top-flight. 

Rafa Benitez would’ve been hoping for a more successful first season back in the Premier League, as the Magpies are currently flirting with the possibility of relegation back to the Championship. Indeed, the Spaniard will need to rally his troops for the final eight games of the current campaign, with many of our local northerners praying that they can avoid the drop.

Although, in a season that’s been surrounded by controversy and bad decision-making, there’s a lot of questions that need to be answered. Of course, Mike Ashley will look to resolve any underlying problems that have halted the club’s progress in the current campaign, as he’ll want to avoid a repeat if they do manage to avoid the drop.

Therefore, here’s a look at TWO questions that Mike Ashley should be asking Rafa Benitez about Newcastle’s season…

Preparation?

Newcastle United have struggled to come to terms with Premier League football in the current campaign, after a rather easy time of things last season in the Championship.

Indeed, Mike Ashley could begin to question Benitez’s preparation prior to the start of the current campaign, after failing to build a side that can produce positive results on a consistent basis in the top-flight.

And, with Martin Dubravka and Kenedy looking like saving Newcastle’s season, the Spaniard will need to take a look at why he didn’t use the summer transfer window to its full potential.

Decision-making?

Newcastle United have lost out on a few occasions due to Benitez’s poor decision-making, as you could say that their current position reflects how well he’s managed the side in the current campaign.

Indeed, the Spaniard opted to bring Joselu to the club during the summer transfer window, which has now gone on to be one of the worst mistakes in the club’s history. And, even when the striker was proving ineffective at the pinnacle of the attack, he still gifted him a place in the side over the likes of Dwight Gayle and Ayoze Perez.

Therefore, Benitez needs to sort out his decision-making if he stays at the club in the summer, as the Magpies may not be as fortunate next time round.