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In the words of Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, R-E-L-A-X. But this time, seriously, just relax.
Rafael Benitez is still the manager of Newcastle United. It’s June 29th. Most players haven’t even come back from vacation (this was 4 days ago).
Benitez, during his time at Liverpool, hardly ever closed deals before July:
During his six years in charge of Liverpool, Rafa Benitez signed 59 players. Only 4 of them joined in May/June. #nufc
— Evin (@EvG_Football) June 27, 2017
Sure, it’s frustrating to log into Twitter every day and see that Florian Lejeune STILL hasn’t arrived at Newcastle International Airport, but before you throw your morning oatmeal at your computer screen, let’s get some perspective. How are other Premier League clubs doing so far in this summer window?
West Ham have signed one player: a 32-year-old full back.
Swansea City brought in a dude named Erwin to play keeper. He’s from SC Heereveen.
How about Stoke City? I’m glad you asked. They’ve brought in world beater Darren Fletcher.
Man United and Arsenal both earned the signature of ONE player thus far.
And one of our promotion rivals, Huddersfield? They’ve brought in a 28 year old striker that played in 7 league games and scored one goal last season.
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Furthermore: Burnley, Chelsea, Palace, Southampton, and West Brom have brought in ZERO players yet.
That means, including us, 60% of PL teams have either signed none or one player.
There's been a lot of noise at NUFC over the past month. Carr out, China interest, Ashley drama; but at the end of the day, every single one of us knows Rafa is working every minute of every day scouting his guys, and as we move into July and players return from vacation, I guarantee things are going to get done.
I would be absolutely shocked if we don’t bring in two defenders, a striker, a winger, and a central midfielder. Call me July 29th and let me know if Rafa hasn’t calmed your nerves. He’s the most important man on Tyneside, and he knows what he’s doing.