Newcastle United's left-back spot is 'up for grabs' as speculation mounts over a host of potential transfer targets. That is the view of Magpies legend Warren Barton, who feels Kieran Trippier is the benchmark for any current squad member or summer signing to try and match.
Dan Burn made the starting spot on the left side of defence his own last season, shifting out from centre-back to accommodate the arrival of Sven Botman. The former Brighton star helped Eddie Howe's side record the joint-best defensive record in the Premier League, but questions remain over the 31-year-old's starting status.
Burn's form limited Matt Targett's own opportunities last term, after the former Aston Villa full-back made the move to St James' Park permanent last summer. Howe also has Jamal Lewis at his disposal, although the Northern Ireland international has now struggled for consistency and minutes during his three-year spell so far.
