Lascelles’ partner

Ciaran Clark has largely proved a revelation since joining the Toon Army from Aston Villa in the summer, despite initial question marks over his defending.

Still, the Republic of Ireland international is surely only a building block in the Rafalution and the club really should identify a long-term partner to keep Jamaal Lascelles company in the heart of defence for the years to come.

It’s clear the 23-year-old will be a major part of the rebuild and needs a top quality partner to flourish, as well as finding the sort of solidity required to build a strong backline.

Perhaps Chancel Mbemba is that man, though the Congolese doesn’t appear to have Benitez’s trust after a few shaky performances in the Championship.