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[Jesus Was A Geordie]

Its the same for us, but to get into those european spots (i cant see Liverpool being as bad as they were last year, and Spurs do not have the CL to contend with) you need to increase the wages to get the players to get you there. its a catch 22 situation though, damned if you do and damned if you dont.

Aye very true...Honestly I think we're going the right way about it though! Obviously no-one can judge how well players will fit into a squad, but in Graham Carr we have one the most impressive scouts I can remember at Newcastle. He not only looks for good, potential bargains, but notes who'll they play well with in the side and what formations etc. would benefit them most (not THAT impressive until you consider the perameters within which he's working AND the success his finds have had).

If the midfield unit of Cabaye and Tiote can link well (which I think they will) and Ben Arfa can return to full fitness, I think we'll be a serious force! Injuries and the ACN will no-doubt knock us back down to earth, but the mutterings from our top brass would imply we'll be going after a cup rather than a league position this year!

 

[Stu_SAFC]

If you get Barnetta, Maitudi and Sissoko I'll be equal measures impressed with your transfer policy, and dead jealous. All look class- I thought Barnetta was attracting Inter/Juve etc!

Like you say, whether it comes off is different, but if any of those do, well done.

 

[Steven Royston O'Neill]

I have to say that Ashley had a bad start then bringing Pardew in seemed like the kiss of death. However if you look at how Newcastle did last season and signings so far its hard to call the fella.

 

[Jesus Was A Geordie]

I have to say that Ashley had a bad start then bringing Pardew in seemed like the kiss of death. However if you look at how Newcastle did last season and signings so far its hard to call the fella.

I still think sacking Hughton was a mistake. I don't mind Pardew and am more than willing to give him the time and patience we've failed to give so many of his predecessors - but under Hughton there was a constant feeling of optimism and pride!

 

[Commachio]

I still think sacking Hughton was a mistake. I don't mind Pardew and am more than willing to give him the time and patience we've failed to give so many of his predecessors - but under Hughton there was a constant feeling of optimism and pride!

But it seems like Ashley likes this one (for now) and is prepared to back him.

Houghton couldn't win, although in the long run, would have been a sucess.

 

[Steven Royston O'Neill]

I still think sacking Hughton was a mistake. I don't mind Pardew and am more than willing to give him the time and patience we've failed to give so many of his predecessors - but under Hughton there was a constant feeling of optimism and pride!

I agree and the delight shown in the football world for him getting the Brum job says it all.Ashley seems to be great and finding the worst way to use PR but you did have a good season, you seem to be buying good players and the image of the club is good cpmpared to not that long ago.

I think this is the closest our two teams have been for a long time and we dont get long to doing any bragging before we meet, I'm looking forward to the season even though we both know that tears lie ahead at some point, its what we do.