Newcastle must strengthen in this one key area

Newcastle go into the final game of their season against Barnsley knowing that the Championship title is not out of their reach, as they are currently a single point behind leaders Brighton.

However, the management, players and fans all recognise that there are far greater prizes ahead, should they prepare themselves adequately. 

A lot has been made of the Magpies’ squad, as it is contains some very talented players. Jonjo Shelvey, Matt Ritchie and Jamaal Lascelles have all been outstanding this year, and they will be vital for Newcastle if they are to survive next season in the world’s most competitive league.

However, there is a position that the Magpies must look to strengthen in, and that is their goalkeeper.

Karl Darlow, Matz Sels and Rob Elliot have all tried their hands at becoming the established number one, and while Elliot and Darlow have not done their chances any harm, they are not quite up to the standard of the Premier League.

It is crucial that manager Rafael Benitez looks for a suitable replacement in goal then. Perhaps the likes of Asmir Begovic, who is second-choice at Chelsea, Victor Valdes, who is on the cusp of relegation with Middlesbrough, or, even the returning Tim Krul, who has been on-loan this season at Dutch side AZ Alkmaar. 

Whatever decision the Spaniard makes, he must look to add some real quality at the back for the Magpies if they are to reap the rewards of staying in the Premier League.