OPINION
Newcastle United fans can be forgiven for their frustration at the lack of movement in the January transfer window, with the deadline slowly ticking closer.
It is clear for all to see that the Magpies need investment this month, with Rafa Benitez working with a squad which is lacking in several areas.
A touted takeover has seemingly slowed their progress in the market however, with owner Mike Ashley obviously reluctant to foot the bill of their January business if he is then to leave straight afterwards.
However, with the deadline now just 11 days away, it is now pretty obvious that a takeover is not going to happen this month, and Ashley will need to make the investment himself.
Indeed, that is what the Mirror are now reporting [19/10, 17:09], with Ashley said to have come to the realisation that he will need to fund their January business.
While many will slam the Sports Direct tycoon for his malaise and delay in coming to such an epiphany, the fact is that Newcastle finally look set to make some movements in the market.
Obviously it would have been preferable for them to do their business early on, giving any new signings as much time as possible to bed in, but there is no point in ruing the past.
The most important thing is that the business gets done, with Benitez looking to plug several huge holes in his squad before the end of the month.
Should they do that, then Newcastle should have more than enough to pull away from the drop zone, just as they did last season.
Ashley’s realisation, while late, is the first step towards that end, and Newcastle fans can finally look forward to some signings in the next few days.
