We're still short of players in key areas - Howe

NEWCASTLE United boss Eddie Howe admits that the Magpies are arguably playing catch-up in this summer's transfer window which swings open on June 1.

- By LEE RYDER

Fans don't need reminding that Newcastle have now endured three barren transfer windows and watched on as other rivals have spent big.

Yet they go into the summer trading period with an opportunity to spend, with PSR conditions eased for the Magpies.

Just over 12 months ago Howe was told he had to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh to raise £65m.

Then in January both Miguel Almiron and Lloyd Kelly were sold to Atlanta United and Juventus respectively to dent the head coach's squad again.