This is the first season in years that Newcastle fans can go into with a sense of excitement and optimism. Not the blind, misplaced optimism that fades when the harsh reality hits after watching the opening handful of games. This time it is different and Toon fans, starved of anything remotely approaching success for so long have genuine reasons to be optimistic. What should the expectations for this 2022/23 season be though? The first full campaign under the new ownership is going to be a whole new ball game from those endured during the Ashley era. But just how high should the realistic Newcastle fan (if they actually exist) set their sights?
Toon Back To Top Flight
One thing for sure is they will be a hell of a lot higher than in August 2021. This time last season, any success for the Toon would have been considered alongside one of the biggest underdog stories in the sport, with staying up the first and perhaps only aim, along with some semblance of a cup run. Suddenly the talk is of a top-four finish, even higher. At long last, the trophy cabinet could—perhaps should—see some action.
There is no getting away from the fact that money and success are intrinsically related in football. What is also true is that it certainly does not guarantee success. You only have to look at Everton’s last few years as evidence of that. Newcastle fans need to change their perspective in relation to time, which for far too long has been overly focused on short-term goals. Survival is the main focus, then when that doesn’t work, it is promotion that counts at all costs. Then consolidation, which all too often turned into a fight for survival once again. When you have that one goal, it is very hard to look past the end of that season. That goes for the manager and board who are trying—in theory—to build for the future.
Now, with the fear of relegation gone, it is an opportunity for everyone to look further ahead than next May. Newcastle’s and the new regime’s success will not be judged on their league position this season, or their trophy haul. It will be judged in 10 years’ time. Chelsea and Manchester City did not change overnight into world beaters, and they were starting from a lot higher base than Newcastle did.
Eddie Howe Delivering
When Eddie Howe was appointed, many saw it as a stop-gap until a “big name” came in. Perhaps that was even the plan, but the new gaffer has surprised everyone. Not only in the players he bought, but in the way he was able to get them up to speed and contributing so quickly, and so well.
The same people may have been expecting massive spending, and marquee signings this summer. That may yet happen, but you get the impression Howe is building a team slowly. He won’t buy a player simply because of his name or price tag, but rather if he feels they will improve on what he has, and will fit in with the current set-up. For a man who has never had the ability to spend almost at will, that shows incredible restraint.
It is early doors, but the side are playing like a team. Playing for the badge and their incredible supporters. Howe will be mindful not to disrupt that, and that surely has to be the first expectation for this season. To have a team that is a joy to watch, that are proud to play for the club, and produce the performances that, in turn, the club and its fans are proud to support.
Success this year should predominately be around progress, with a look to build something that is sustainable and can be improved upon year-on-year. Some people may not want to hear that, but that is how Newcastle will establish themselves as one of the best clubs in Europe, and avoid the car crash some were predicting. And of course, a couple of shiny trophies along the way wouldn’t be a bad thing.
Photos by Unsplash
