Eddie Howe will rightly not publicly tolerate such talk, but those in power at Newcastle United can now start planning for next season in the Premier League. The Magpies have reached the magical 40-point mark, and it will take an unlikely revival from several relegation rivals to even threaten United's top-flight status.
The battle for survival over recent months has not stopped the steady stream of summer transfer speculation. January's spend in excess of £90m has whet the appetite of supporters, even if there have been several cautions issued to lower expectations of a substantial overhaul.
Newcastle have improved significantly in the calendar year, yet cases can still be made to strengthen in all areas. Attack is one position which most would agree upon, with Callum Wilson's injury record leaving Dwight Gayle as the only alternative to Chris Wood up front.
