Newcastle United have what it takes to survive this season

Why there should be optimism in the campaign’s early stages.

As Newcastle United head into the second weekend of the new Premier League season, there is still negativity flying around. That’s despite the promising and spirited performance Rafael Benitez’s men showed against Spurs in their opening game.

Jonjo Shelvey’s moment of madness cost Newcastle at least a point, but there was not an awful lot between the two sides up until that incident. There were still a lot of positives to take from the performance, with a number of players impressing.

Newcastle are away to fellow newly-promoted side Huddersfield this weekend. This fixture will bring back good memories for the travelling fans and players, with Newcastle coming out on top last season 3-1.

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A lot of people expected Newcastle to get turned over against Spurs, and that simply wasn’t the case.

However, against Huddersfield Newcastle have a real chance of getting some points on the board.

Newcastle were hit hard when Jonjo Shelvey served a suspension last season. Though there aren’t such worries this time around, as Rafael Benitez has a ready-made replacement in Mikel Merino. The midfielder came off the bench on Sunday and really caught the eye. His passing and movement were both impressive.

Even if Newcastle do not pick up a result against Huddersfield, it will not be time for panic. The Magpies lost their opening two games in the Championship and still lifted the title at the end of the season.

Benitez will be confident that he can lead his side to a comfortable finish this season. Despite the transfer frustrations this summer, the club have the makings of a good squad. One that is more than capable of staying away from danger.

Benitez stressed the importance of fans getting behind the team for the full 90 minutes, no matter what. The fans will play a huge part this season and can really help guide the Magpies to safety. 12,000 fans turned up for an open day Thursday to watch the team train. 12,000 – that is extraordinary.

There will be tough times for the club this season, however, they have the right mentality to bounce back from disappointment. That was certainly not the case under previous managers, and Benitez will not allow his side to crumble.

Newcastle finally bought a striker to provide competition for Gayle and Mitrovic. Joselu came in from Stoke City for £5 million. He has already made an impression, scoring a thunderous volley during the open day.

Despite the notion that Newcastle haven’t brought in many players, Joselu became the sixth summer signing.

Like any other promoted side, the main aim is survival this season and build from there. A whole host of people have written Newcastle off, underestimating the players massively.

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Fortunately, the players in the Magpies squad thrive on proving people wrong. I have no doubt that they will silence their critics this season.