Pro 1: Loan Ranger

Clearly, handing a 32-year-old who is more than likely past his best a big contract in the second tier really wouldn’t fit in with the sound financial planning that has defined the Mike Ashley era.

Still, the notion of bringing in a hugely experienced winger – an area where Newcastle are a little light – on a short-term loan to help further round out the squad shouldn’t be sniffed at.

Borrowing a man well-versed in the dark arts of the Championship for six months could prove to be a masterstroke.