The issues with ownership at St James’ did not affect that progress at Newcastle United as Rafa Benitez, who was given a fairly average squad, worked wonders to take them to a finish in the top half of the table. With the Spaniard happy to stay at the club, the Magpies will now be tempted to invest big in a project that seems to be taking the right steps.
So it does not come as a surprise that Newcastle United are linked with a host of stars from around Europe. But one player they are now looking to resign is Andros Townsend.
A nomad in the top two tiers in England, Townsend played his first senior game for Yeovil Town on loan, from the academy at Tottenham Hotspur. He spent eight stints on loan at different clubs in his seven years in London, before signing for Newcastle United on a permanent deal in 2016.
He spent just half a season in Newcastle, as the club ended the campaign, having dropped into the Championship. He decided to stay back in the top flight and signed a new deal with Crystal Palace, turning into a crucial star for the Eagles in his two seasons at the club.
A versatile winger, who can also play as a no.9, the 26-year-old is one of the most experienced players in his role in the country. He has 13 appearances for the national side, to add to 147 Premier League appearances, where he scored 14 goals and 22 assists.
He was crucial in Crystal Palace avoiding the drop last season, registering two goals and seven assists, in 35 league starts, standing as one of the most consistent players for the club. He is quick, strong, athletic and a hard man to mark on the wing while his ability to play on either flank, only makes him a much more useful option for the Magpies.
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At just 26, he is yet to hit his peak and reports suggest that Newcastle United are ready to pay up to £20m for his services. He will bring loads of experience with him, and can even walk into the first team at a side that used young Kenedy on a consistent basis last season.
Rafa does not have too many wingers to turn to in his side and spending on Townsend will solve more than one problem currently prevalent at the club. He has already worked with him just over a year ago and could certainly make him a star at St James’ Park next season.
