Big decisions could lie ahead

NEWCASTLE United managed to add six first-team players to their squad in the summer transfer window, with only four heading through the exit door.

- By STUART JAMIESON

Of that quartet, only Alexander Isak was a regular first-team starter, with Callum Wilson and Sean Longstaff dropping down the pecking order last term, and Martin Dubravka backup to Nick Pope.

There’s no suggestion United will have to sell to continue spending in the January window despite a heavy outlay last month.

Newcastle had budgeted for this summer's investment and received £130m from Liverpool for Isak.

However, any new additions could mean some players deciding it’s time to leave St James’ Park.

Eddie Howe's squad is a tight-knit group, but some departures could be on the cards in the winter trading period.

JOE WILLOCK

THE former Arsenal midfielder is yet to appear for United this season after picking up a groin injury in preseason.

He has been named on the bench in the last two Premier League games without being used.