Top five January transfer needs for Newcastle United

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WEST BROMWICH, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 28: Aleksandar Mitrovic of Newcastle United and Claudio Yacob of West Bromwich Albion jump for the ball during the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and Newcastle United at The Hawthorns on November 28, 2017 in West Bromwich, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) /

1) Decide what to do with Mitrovic

The atmosphere and mood around a football club can have a tremendous impact on success, and that includes fans as well. Certain player situations can create angst amongst supporters, and that is the current issue with striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Especially with Joselu ineffective on the front-line (and Mitro scoring often for Serbia), the 23-year-old has been frustrated by his lack of playing time. The Toon Army feel that anxious energy, and the subject can cause a divide with many individuals.

It has almost become a routine event this season, and it begins exactly one hour before kick-off. Team news for the Magpies is released, and social media goes into a complete meltdown.

Rafa Benitez definitely has a problem with trusting the forward, and that perspective was reinforced by his three-match FA ban earlier in the campaign for violent conduct against West Ham United.

Reports of a move away from Tyneside have become louder over the past few days, and one can certainly understand Mitrovic’s desire to be a regular starter.

Whatever the final decision might be, it would be helpful for Benitez to confirm future plans. If Mitro’s time at Newcastle is indeed over, he must be able to start a new chapter. If the manager feels that he can still be of use, a faltering attack needs him now more than ever.

Next: Newcastle United's top five managers in club history

A true fan-favourite at Newcastle United, Aleksandar Mitrovic deserves to know what the next step is.