Eddie Howe all but confirms Newcastle United fans' biggest fears after Aston Villa defeat
There is something missing at Newcastle United this season, and it is becoming an increasingly bigger problem.
Despite all the talent in midfield and in the attacking third, the Magpies are still lacking that little bit of creative spark that can unlock defences, especially stubborn defences that sit in and invite Newcastle onto them.
This is partially why fans have been clamouring for Eddie Howe to play Nick Woltemade as a number 10 with Yoane Wissa up front, but after giving it a try for just one game, that plan has been scrapped already it seems.
We're a week away from the transfer window slamming shut, and while fans are still crossing their fingers for a new addition to inject some life into the side, it's looking more and more unlikely that the Magpies are going to be spending any money this month.
Eddie Howe sounds defeated when it comes to the January transfer window
If Newcastle are to delve into the market this month, it's more likely that they'd be bringing in a defensive player anyway. Eddie Howe completely ruled out an attacking addition in his post-match press conference on Sunday, but his words suggested that there will be no additions at all in this window.
“There's no point in me thinking we need another type of player at this moment, because it's not going to happen. The next chance we'll have to change the squad really will be the summer.
“It's about getting the best out of the players we have, as I said on Friday. That's the case now. I don't think we played badly [against Aston Villa].
“Certainly, around the goal we could have done better, of course. We've still created chances that on another day I think we score, but it wasn't to be.”
We promised not to judge Ross Wilson on January ... I think we lied
That sounds like a man who has been told he's getting no extra help this month, and the lack of action up to this point would certainly back up that theory.
As much as we promised not to judge Ross Wilson on the January window, it's hard not to in a way. A total lack of movement when we know the money is there, and having watched us struggle like a fish on land so many times this season feels almost negligent.
There is still time, of course, but we're not holding our breath.
