Signing of the Summer: Newcastle Lock Down Chief Scout Graham Carr for 8 Years

Newcastle United announced Thursday via their official website that they had signed Chief Scout Graham Carr to a new contract that will keep the highly regarded talent evaluator on Tyneside for the next 8 years. Carr has been with the club since February 2010 and has unearthed several low-cost, high-yield players in that short amount of time.

It's easy to make the case that Graham Carr is the most important member of the organization, as his finds have allowed the club to be competitive while constrained to a rather limited budget compared to the clubs that surrounded them in the final table last season. Carr's work will be even more vital as FIFA's Financial Fair Play regulations take effect.

Newcastle Managing Director Derek Llambias said the following about the signing:

We are delighted to have agreed an eight-year deal with Graham, and very pleased that he has committed his long-term future to the club. He has been instrumental in helping us to bring some truly exceptional players to Newcastle United and he has deservedly built one of the best reputations in the business. Graham works tirelessly to identify talented young players from across the world and has done a magnificent job over the last two years. He has the complete faith and support of the owner, the board and the manager, and it is excellent news that the club will continue to benefit from his expertise for many years to come.

Rejoice, Newcastle fans. This one move will enable the club to make many more shrewd signings in the future. This is a good day.