Bent says four Watford forwards would still get into Newcastle side

By Jordan Harris

Darren Bent has told talkSPORT the four Watford players he believes would get into the Newcastle United side, as he claimed that he is not yet convinced that the Magpies will be staying up after their January spending.

Newcastle were incredibly busy during the window. They ultimately ended up with five new signings. Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes and Dan Burn all joined Eddie Howe’s side on a permanent deal.

Meanwhile, Matt Targett has also joined the club on loan from Aston Villa. There is absolutely no question that Newcastle have improved defensively. In fact, Howe has arguably upgraded three of the four back line spots.

However, further forward, Newcastle have not made drastic changes. Wood could be a shrewd signing. But some may suggest that the biggest upside to his arrival is the fact that Burnley have lost their most consistent goalscorer over the last few years.

They were heavily linked with Jesse Lingard amongst others. But they missed out on further additions. And with that, Bent has claimed that four Watford attackers would improve the Newcastle squad.

“Even with these five signings, I couldn’t put my hand on my heart and go: they’re definitely going to stay up now,” he told talkSPORT. “Even Watford’s strikers, Dennis would get in this Newcastle team, Josh King, he would, Pedro, Ismaila Sarr. I think it’s a little bit safe.”

Newcastle set to be much tougher to beat – but also have the attacking quality to pull away from trouble, despite Bent concerns

It looked essential that Newcastle improved defensively. Only Norwich City have conceded more goals so far this season.

They have not been prolific. Again, only Norwich have a worse XG per 90 minutes. But they do have the quality to improve considerably in the final third.

Callum Wilson and Wood have been consistent goalscorers in the Premier League for several years. Meanwhile, Allan Saint-Maximin has five goals to his name this season.

Joe Willock proved how dangerous he could be while on loan. And players such as Miguel Almiron and Joelinton will be looking to improve their output over the coming months.

Obviously, Watford have several dangerous players of their own. But Newcastle do surely have enough to get themselves out of trouble.