Graeme Jones is expected to return to Newcastle United after England’s campaign at this summer’s delayed European Championships, according to The Daily Mail.
What’s the latest Newcastle news?
Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, England boss Gareth Southgate revealed he had drafted the former Luton boss into his coaching set-up ahead of this summer’s tournament.
Jones, who joined Newcastle in January, has previously worked with Belgium manager Roberto Martinez at international tournaments before, though is expected to return to St James’ Park ahead of next season.
How well has he done at Newcastle?
Obviously, we aren’t privy to exactly what happens on the training field but The Daily Mail did claim yesterday that figures close to the Newcastle dressing room viewed his arrival in early 2021 as a major reason as to why the team were able to turn their season around.
Indeed, statistics posted by Twitter account Premier League Panel show the improvement in the attack following his arrival, scoring 27 goals in 18 games compared to 19 in 20 before he joined.
Following the 3-2 win over Southampton in February (one of Jones’ first games), analyst Mark Thompson of Twenty3 spoke of the tactical versatility Newcastle were starting to show on an attacking front too.
What did Southgate say about Jones?
During his press conference at St George’s Park, Southgate moved to thank Steve Bruce and Lee Charnley for allowing Jones to link up with England.
“I need to thank Steve Bruce and (Newcastle’s managing director) Lee Charnley for their help letting us work with Graeme,” he said (via The Mail).
“They have been incredibly supportive and I’m very appreciative of that.”
