Matt Targett made fewer appearances for Newcastle United last season than Sandro Tonali, who received a 10-month ban early in the season. Since making his loan move from Aston Villa permanent, the 28-year-old has only played 26 times over two seasons due to a series of injuries.
While it might seem harsh to criticize Targett for his injury struggles, especially since he can’t control his physical limitations, his £15 million price tag and £100k-a-week salary, as reported by Capology, haven’t exactly helped his reputation. This is particularly frustrating when recalling how impressive he was during that half-season loan spell when Eddie Howe worked his miracles.
Targett aiming for a strong comeback alongside Sandro Tonali
There’s speculation that Targett could be moved on before the transfer window closes, possibly on loan, with four Premier League clubs reportedly interested in him. However, after playing for Newcastle U21s against Sunderland alongside Kieran Trippier, Targett spoke to NUFC TV and expressed his focus on the upcoming Carabao Cup match against Nottingham Forest.
“We have a couple of big days next week. It will be important to keep building my fitness and hopefully look forward to the cup game.
“But obviously Bournemouth comes first, so we’ll focus on that, and then I can try to be available for the cup.”
“That’s my goal [to return in the Carabao Cup]. Hopefully, it will be an injury-free season.”
We’d love to see an injury-free season for Targett, but the question remains—do we still need him?
If Targett stays at the club for the Forest game, he’ll likely play a role, but his comeback will inevitably be overshadowed by Sandro Tonali, who is also set to return after his suspension ends the night before.
While it would be fantastic if Targett could recapture his form from the end of the 2021/22 season, the reality is that shifting his £100k-a-week wages off the books might be more beneficial. The truth is, Newcastle has managed without him for two seasons, and they can likely continue to do so.
