The January transfer window is a tricky one for several reasons – everyone is mid-season, player prices get inflated, rumours abound.
at Newcastle, we still bask in the memory of the first January window under Eddie Howe and the new ownership, which saw us bring in Kieran Trippier, Bruno Guimaraes and more, which ultimately led to us staying in the Premier League. Halcyon days.
Our transfer strategy has come under much scrutiny from fans, with some claiming Howe has too much power, but the ultimate decision resting with the head coach is nothing unusual. This January has mostly seen academy and under-21 players loaned out or sold.
What it also has done is given us a fun little indicator of what is to come this summer, as there were rumours linking our midfield maestro Sandro Tonali to Arsenal.
In my opinion, this was not designed to be a serious last-day move but a signal of intent for the summer. More heartache incoming as our best players leave.
So, am I happy with the business done at Newcastle this January? Not really, because we needed to bring in a defensive player or two given our injury issues there.
We also let Jamaal Lascelles go. It was time; he should be playing football and he was not for us. After 12 years and 253 appearances though, I want to give him his flowers. An incredible presence in some really dark times for us, he understood what it meant to the fans and the club. A real captain.
I suppose I am grateful we have not sold anyone integral at this stage in our season. Losing key players without bringing any in would have been a madness. I did not expect much from this window.
I just hope it means the summer will be used wisely as our squad is in serious need of a refresh.
Find more from Charlotte Robson at the True Faith: Newcastle United Podcast, external