It seems like January could be a busy time for everyone on Tyneside, not only due to the fact the transfer window will burst open in a matter of days.
There’s also the small matter of the African Cup of Nations, where the likes of Chancel Mbemba, Achraf Lazaar, Christian Atsu and Mo Diame will be missing for pretty much the whole month.
Diame in particular, will be a big miss, following his upturn in performances of late.
While the Senegalese struggled initially upon his move from Hull City, his marauding outings against Birmingham, Wigan and Burton have given the Toon an added dimension.
So, there’s little surprise to see the Chronicle suggesting Rafa Benitez will enter the loan market to replace him
While no names are mentioned, it’s claimed the Spaniard is casting keen eyes over the Premier League in order to find high calibre replacements.
Ayoze Perz is able to deputise, though has failed to find any sort of consistency in his game this season.
