The lad seems injury free and is scoring for fun in the Dutch league for PSV. I think with Rafa's formation he could provide good squad depth and more importantly a creative spark behind the main striker if that's how we set up next year. Thoughts?
It's a great point, Albert. He's the only No 10 on the books at Newcastle. Still young and whilst a bit blighted by injury would know what to expect if he came back over. I'd personally be very happy to see him back and given another shot, plus it would free up what will be limited resources for real problem areas in central midfield, left back, central midfield, left wing....simply put, everywhere else.
I had given up but if he can stay injury free and cope with the PL demands, he is obviously a very good footballer. I think everyone knew that. Its a big IF though. With our number situation we can't afford to be too close minded. We need to sign at least one. If we can then have De Jong in direct competition with that player, it may spur them on. I wouldn't rule it out and if Rafa likes him then obviously it makes sense. The manager has to want the player first and foremost.
I'd keep him purely so I don't need to change my username. On a serious note however I would like to see him given another chance. Yes the Dutch league is easier but it's the fact he's stayed fit that is more important
When he played for us he didn't really look mobile enough for the quick pace in the Premier League. With his track record with injuries I'd try to offload him and look elsewhere tbh. It's a matter of time until he's on the treatment table again. And if Rafa did rate him surely he'd have been here this season?
To be honest there is some sense in this if you think about it. This is as high as his stock is going to get. I can see both sides because of how Rafa sets up. Maybe he could use him and his rotation would likely suit his fragility. However he is one serious injury away from having zero value
He did his hamstring, his thigh, his lung, and his eye while he was here. He also did his groin at PSV this season. It is worth noting that he has another 3 (THREE) years on his contract at Newcastle.