The ecstatic times have arrived at St. James’ Park once again as Newcastle United managed to carve an immediate return back to the Premier League with a bang. The Geordies have not only secured an automatic promotion spot but have also clinched the league silverware to accomplish their task of getting back to the top tier of English football in the best manner possible. They didn’t wither away and managed to add strength to strength throughout the campaign and the output is a testament to the same.
Rafael Benitez successfully passed the baptism of fire with flying colours and lived up to his reputation. He delivered as per the expectations and is all set to channelise the Toons forward in the right direction in the Premier League. However, he isn’t unaware of the animosity which the top flight has on offer and would be keen to strengthen his squad as well as amend the existing loopholes. The right-back slot would be his prime area of concern and without any shadow of a doubt, he should be attempting to bring a fresh face in that department.
Mike Ashley isn’t renowned for spending lavishly and it isn’t hard to decipher that the former Real Madrid and Liverpool boss would have to pluck a shrewd deal involving an affordable investment. The valuations of the English players have been perennially high and thus, Benitez might be looking at cheaper yet prospectively productive avenues existing in the continent. Apparently, the Magpies are reported to be interested in bringing the Denmark international, Peter Ankersen, to the club in the summer transfer window.
Ankersen plies his trade at FC Copenhagen in the Superliga, which is the top division of Danish football. Ever since his move from Red Bull Salzburg, the 26-year-old has cemented his stature with the Lions and has emerged as one of the most dependable defenders present with their employers. A well-built right-back who pencils a fine balance between attacking and defensive endeavours, Ankersen has the requisite club-level experience and has been manoeuvred a name for himself with his national side as well.
Newcastle United has had their woes in dealing with their requirements to fill the right-back position during the absence of DeAndre Yedlin. If they can lure Ankersen to St. James’ Park, they will have the luxury of owning a readymade and proven customer who can not only beef up their ranks but also enable them in cultivating an element of competitiveness for a place in the starting line-up of Benitez.
