Five Newcastle players with the biggest point to prove in pre-season include injury-ridden £39m ace

Eddie Howe will keep a vigilant eye on his squad during pre-season, with many players eager to make a strong impression.

After a turbulent 2023/24 season plagued by injuries, Newcastle United narrowly missed out on a European place. As pre-season approaches, several players have a lot to prove and are determined to secure their spots in the team.

Newcastle has been active in the summer transfer window, securing four new signings: John Ruddy, Odysseas Vlachodimos, Lloyd Kelly, and the permanent signing of Lewis Hall.

These new arrivals are set to increase competition for places in Eddie Howe’s side, making it crucial for current players to demonstrate their abilities. With more signings expected, some players might find themselves playing for their futures at the club.

Joe Willock

Joe Willock, one of the players impacted by injuries last season, has a pivotal pre-season ahead.

The former Arsenal midfielder missed the pre-season ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, which significantly affected his fitness. An Achilles injury towards the end of the 2022/23 season limited him to just 14 appearances in all competitions.

This pre-season, Willock aims to regain full fitness and remind Eddie Howe of his capabilities, especially after being a key player in the squad that finished in the top four in 2022/23.

Sandro Tonali

Sandro Tonali had high expectations upon joining from AC Milan last summer and started positively by scoring on his Premier League debut against Aston Villa. However, his ten-month ban for breaching betting rules in October compounded a tough season for Newcastle.

Limited to twelve appearances in all competitions before his ban, Tonali has been able to train with the side and will be available for behind-closed-doors games before being eligible for competitive action in time for Newcastle’s third game of the new season against Tottenham at St James’ Park.

Harvey Barnes

Harvey Barnes, another player hampered by injury last season, joined Newcastle from Leicester City last summer for £39m. Unfortunately, a toe injury in September 2023 sidelined him, and he only returned to action in March. This left him frustrated as he watched his new side struggle amid an injury crisis.

Howe had envisioned Barnes occupying the left wing with Gordon on the right. Barnes will aim to seize his opportunity during pre-season and prove to the manager why he was brought to the club.

Garang Kuol

Garang Kuol impressed for Central Coast Mariners, attracting interest from top clubs, including Barcelona. Newcastle quickly secured his signature and loaned him to SPL side Hearts during the 2022/23 campaign. However, the loan move didn’t go as planned, with Kuol struggling to break into the side and making just nine appearances.

A new loan move for the 2023/24 campaign to Eredivisie side FC Volendam also failed to impress, with only 17 appearances. The youngster is at a crossroads in his career and will have the opportunity to impress Howe during pre-season. Failing to do so could see him depart the club permanently.

Sean Longstaff

Sean Longstaff’s position in the Newcastle side was under threat following Tonali’s arrival last summer. However, the academy product capitalized on the Italian’s absence, maintaining his place in the squad.

The Geordie midfielder made 46 appearances in all competitions last season, often playing through the pain barrier. With Tonali’s imminent return and Willock and Joelinton returning to full fitness, Longstaff’s position is again at risk. Howe has consistently praised the midfielder, and Longstaff will be determined to repay the manager’s faith in him during pre-season.

The upcoming pre-season is crucial for Newcastle United as Eddie Howe assesses his squad and integrates new signings. With several players having points to prove and competition for places intensifying, the team’s performance during this period will set the tone for the 2024/25 campaign.

Fans will be eager to see how these players step up and whether they can secure their futures at the club, aiming for a successful season ahead.