The second stage of Newcastle United's transfer rebuild under the new owners is now complete with four headline recruits through the door. Eddie Howe has once again been backed handsomely and has overseen a squad overhaul which has so far delivered on the pitch.
The club's ambitious owners have committed to a total transfer spend in excess of £200 million to date, with the Magpies now looking upwards following last season's successful survival bid. Deals for Sven Botman, Nick Pope and Matt Targett were concluded early in the window, while the club-record deal for Alexander Isak was confirmed less than a week before the deadline.
The dramatic late midweek defeat to Liverpool is the only blemish on an otherwise positive start to the season for Newcastle. Injuries limited Howe's options at Anfield, but the majority of those sidelined are expected to be available for selection in the near future.
Emil Krafth has joined Jonjo Shelvey on the long-term absentee list after the defender picked up an ACL injury in the Carabao Cup victory at Tranmere Rovers. The full-back is facing a race to make a comeback before the end of the season, while Shelvey may not return before the mid-season World Cup break.
However, United's transfer business in both the January and summer transfer windows means Howe has healthy competition for places in his squad. But when those suffering with minor injuries and setbacks return, what does Newcastle's best eleven for the first-half of the season look like?
Martin Dubravka's loan departure to Manchester United means Pope's position as number one is likely safe for the foreseaable future. Botman has impressed in his five appearances to date, but does the former Lille star take the place of either Dan Burn or Fabian Schar?
Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton are among the first names on the teamsheet now, and Elliot Anderson's emergence could pose Howe a midfield conundrum in the coming months. Isak netted on his Magpies debut as the lone frontman, but may have to settle for a wide role when Callum Wilson returns to fitness.
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