Newcastle United: 5 things we learned from the 2017/18 season

6 of 6

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 18: Dwight Gayle of Newcastle United celebrates with team mates after scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Old Trafford on November 18, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) /

1. Now Hiring: Quality Striker

Rafa Benitez’s primary objective this season must be to bring in quality strikers. Newcastle only scored 39 goals this season because their attacking duo combined for a mere nine goals. This means that 77 percent of Newcastle’s goals came from other positions.

While it is a good sign that midfielders and defenders can combine for 30 goals, it is worrisome seeing strikers not reaching double-digit figures. The blame here belongs to Mike Ashley for refusing to spend more money to meet the demands of the club.

With over £120 million in the bank just from television rights this season, Ashley must provide a large sum of funds to Benitez to buy a top striker. Precision has been Newcastle’s worst enemy this season. The Magpies were in the top nine in terms of shot attempts with 451, but only scored 39 goals. To put things into perspective, only eight percent of Newcastle’s shots were goals… eight percent.

Enough is enough and this must be the summer that sees Newcastle spend big on quality strikers. The defense is stable and the midfield just needs a helping hand, but the front-line needs major upgrades. Several options are available for Newcastle to choose from, but the club must spend money to bring them in.