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‘What’s the point?’: Alan Shearer sends blunt message to Newcastle United higher-ups ahead of Champions League season
Newcastle United Clinch Champions League Spot Thanks to Manchester United Win
Newcastle United secured a place in next season’s Champions League by the narrowest of margins on the final day, thanks in part to a rare victory from Manchester United that ensured Aston Villa finished below them in the table.
This marks Newcastle’s second Champions League appearance in three years, following their long-awaited return to Europe’s top competition after a 20-year absence. That return proved to be a steep learning curve for manager Eddie Howe and his squad.
Heading into that campaign, Newcastle were already stretched thin, and a few injuries quickly exposed the squad’s lack of depth.
Whether chalked up to bad luck or not, the injury crisis was severe and ultimately derailed their season.
The issue was compounded by the inability to rotate players effectively, leading to many being overworked until they broke down.
Alan Shearer Calls for Investment Ahead of New Season
Club legend Alan Shearer has weighed in on what needs to be done to avoid a repeat scenario. Speaking to Betfair (via The Mirror), Shearer emphasized the importance of strengthening the squad.
“Newcastle need to go out, spend, and bring in at least three or four first-team players — players who won’t just compete but who will earn a spot in the starting XI.
If they do that, they’ll be right up there again next season, challenging for trophies,” Shearer said.
He also pointed out that the club has gone through three transfer windows without making any major signings, suggesting there must be funds available now.
“They have to back Eddie Howe with the reinforcements he needs. If they haven’t learned from their last Champions League experience, then what’s the point?” he added.
Squad Depth Remains a Key Concern
In addition to top-level signings, Newcastle would also benefit from adding one or two dependable squad players to increase depth.
The biggest takeaway from last season’s Champions League campaign was that a limited squad cannot compete effectively across four competitions without a fair amount of luck.
Although Head of Performance James Bunce has done an exceptional job keeping players fit this year, even he has limits.
More bodies in the squad would help share the workload and reduce the risk of another injury-riddled season.
