It’s been a stop-start season for the Magpies who, despite some big results, have failed to gain momentum so far. They had a busy summer with several key inclusions but are still lacking enough creative spark in the middle of the park. With the winter window set to open in just over a month’s time, former England international Darren bent has urged Newcastle United to sign Harry Winks on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
“I think for Harry Winks, I think there will be takers for him, even a Newcastle, he could go to Newcastle and play so there will be options for him in January. It’s important he doesn’t waste half a season in and out the team, not playing well while people like Kalvin Phillips, every week, if he’s fit, he plays. Declan Rice, if he’s fit, he plays.”
Said the ex-Tottenham Hotspur centre-forward (while speaking to Football Insider) who has provided a realistic view of Winks’ current situation in North London.
Why Winks Should Seek A Winter Transfer
The 24-year-old midfielder was integral under former boss Mauricio Pochettino and even captained his boyhood side last season following Jose Mourinho’s arrival. But the summer inclusion of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg has jeopardized Winks’ starting status and the player, thus, must aim regular minutes elsewhere in order to stake a claim in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2020 squad.
The Lilywhites have ample midfield options and the likes of Højbjerg, Moussa Sissoko, Tanguy Ndombele and Giovani Lo Celso are preferred by the veteran Portuguese for their work ethics and directness. Both Dele Ali and Winks are struggling for game-time and the emergence of Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice has made things further complicated for the Tottenham pair in terms of their Three Lions duties.
Why Newcastle United Should Rope In Winks
Newcastle United, on the other hand, have lacked the composure and creativity in the centre of the pitch. Although Jonjo Shelvey’s return from injury would be a significant boost for Steve Bruce, the presence of Isaac Hayden deep down the pitch offers more physicality and less vision. Winks has the experience of the highest order and his ability to orchestrate the tempo from the deep-lying role would allow Shelvey, Sean Longstaff or Jeff Hendrick to operate with ease and expertise.
Having said that, it’s a long road ahead for Spurs too who are currently leading the Premier League race but, at the same time, must deal with the fixture congestion of Europa League football. They would rather retain their homegrown talent unless the player asks for an exit.
