While it’s been a frustrating summer at times for Newcastle United, none of that matters when the Toon Army welcome Tottenham Hotspur to St. James’ Park on the 13th August.
Indeed, whether or not Rafa Benitez is frustrated at the manner in which this summer window has gone will have to put be to one side in a few weeks as stage two of the Rafalution gets underway, against the side he beat 5-1 following relegation from the top tier.
As ever, the Magpies are struggling with injuries. Though Benitez and his side have enjoyed a relatively productive pre-season, the 57-year-old has been speaking about the fitness of skipper Jamaal Lascelles, who has missed the last three friendlies.
The 23-year-old was suffering with a hernia problem towards the back end of last season and a slight knock kept him out of the recent loss at Mainz. Still, with quotes sourced by the Evening Chronicle it seems Rafa holds out hope of having his captain fit for the season opener.
“He was very close”, he confirmed.
”He trained on Monday and hopefully he can be available.”
Should Lascelles start against Spurs, if fit?
