Danny Murphy believes the Saudi-backed takeover has inspired Newcastle United players to raise their game. Since the new regime took charge in October 2021, several former outcasts have taken centre stage.
Joelinton, Fabian Schar and Miguel Almiron appeared destined for the St James’ Park scrapheap but are now playing a key role under Eddie Howe. Supplemented by marquee new arrivals, a culture shift is underway on Tyneside.
Competition for places - especially in forward areas - is offering Howe selection dilemmas few Newcastle managers have faced in recent years. Allan Saint-Maximin was undroppable for the Magpies under Mike Ashley’s ownership but is struggling to force his way into the team.
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Record signing Alexander Isak, too, has impressed in his substitute cameos but has not started a league game since returning from injury. Bolstering the midfield and defensive options in the same manner would allow Newcastle to compete on multiple fronts should European football be secured this season.
Ex-Liverpool midfielder Murphy has insisted the threat of players being replaced in future transfer windows has worked to United’s benefit. He told talkSPORT: “They’re doing tremendously well. They’ve certainly come forward quicker than I anticipated. They’re doing it from a very strong foundation of defensive solidity.
“(It is) brilliant what he's (Howe) done in that respect. But, although they're difficult to beat and don't concede many goals, they still pose a threat going the other way. It's the hardest balance to have in football.
“They’re enjoyable to watch. A lot of those players are playing with a hunger that you need to move forward and be successful. Some of them want to be on the journey and know the club is going to spend. There are going to be players coming in and the ones that are (already) there look like they're trying to stay on board.”
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