Premier League Preview
Newcastle
Manager: Alan Pardew
Captain: Fabricio Coloccini
13/14 position: 10th
Top League Goalscorer: Loic Remy 13
For all the uncertainty in the Premier League, it never stops being absolutely bonkers at Newcastle. After beating Chelsea and Man United in the first half of the season, Ashley decided to sell Newcastle’s hugely popular and hugely influential Yohan Cabaye and replace him with… no one.
It would be surprising were it not for a decision at one of the country’s biggest but barmiest football clubs. Cabaye was not only a key player, but a creative force in a team not exactly known for wizardry under unpopular Alan Pardew, one part of the once-trio of the Cockney Mafia at St James’ Park, but a key third of that clan left after the comical Joe Kinnear left his director of football role. (His hilarious Talksport interview below, listen out for “Yohan Kebab”)
Despite that weird spell, on the pitch the team seemed to be the most stable, before completely collapsing in the second half of the season, such was the negative effect of selling Cabaye. The reinvestment has finally come, however.
The Toon have recruited French star Remy Cabella for a bargain £12.5m, with Daryl Janmaat, Ayoze Perez and Siem de Jong joining too. But the likes of Mathieu Debuchy and Loic Remy will be big misses, and they still haven’t really looked like replacing Cabaye. Top ten finish though. 9th
FANS OPINION: Marcus Shearer @marcusshearer1
What is your idea of a good season for your club?
This is Mike Ashley’s Newcastle United, so anywhere from 17th or above above is considered a success! Realistically, I’d hope for something as high as 6th (hoping Europa League football slows down Everton & / or Spurs) & as low as 9th. A trophy would also certainly go towards a ‘good’ season!
Worst case scenario?
Relegation & Pardew STILL in charge the next season. I actually doubt relegation will happen, as I think there are still at least 3 worse teams than us as it stands. However, as long as Mike Ashley’s around, ANYTHING goes.
Best player?
New signings Cabella & Siem De Jong look promising, but I’d have to say currently Cheick Tiote. On his day, he’s one of the best midfield generals around.
Player you’d happily drive to his next club?
Gabriel Obertan! Even though he’s had a pretty good pre-season, he’s been a huge flop since joining 3 years ago. Wasted talent & potential all round.
Fans hero?
Remy Cabella has quickly been taken to the hearts of the Geordies, expressing how much he already loves living in Newcastle. Fabricio Coloccini is a player that leads by example & has stuck with us through it all for 6 years.
Hatem Ben Arfa gets a lot of love from the Newcastle terraces, but I fear he may not be a Newcastle player for much longer.
If you could pick, who would you want your team to do the double over this year?
I would say Sunderland, but this team with new signings looks like it could beat them on their day anyway. I’ll have to say Man Utd, just to see their fans miserable faces at FT. Old Trafford last season was incredible, more of that again please!
League winners?
I’d like to see the PL trophy leave Manchester after 4 years, but I think it’ll stay for a 5th consecutive year at Man Utd. No European football to contend for, Van Gaal looks the real deal too. I’d rather Liverpool won it personally, or Newcastle of course!
Relegated?
Unless they hang on to Vlaar & Benteke whom of which play out of their skin all season, Aston Villa for one.
West Brom looked a bit rough towards the end of last season, I think they’ll be in trouble too.
Finally, Hull. If they have Europa League football to contend with as well, it could catch up with & ultimately cost them dearly.
Surprise package?
Leicester City. They’ve a solid GK in Kasper Schmeichael, an excellent tricky winger in Anthony Knockeart as well as a good contrast in strikers with Jamie Vardy, David Nugent & Chris Wood. I think they may go about their business quietly & sneak up that table. Watch this space!
Who will win the golden boot?
Daniel Sturridge. Between their brand of attacking football & service from Steven Gerrard, Daniel will become the new spearhead of Liverpool’s attack providing he stays fit.