How likely is a Newcastle United return for Crystal Palace’s Andros Townsend?

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Andros Townsend is once again being linked with a transfer back to Newcastle United, the team that he left just under 12 months ago.

He came close to a return in January, but Crystal Palace decided to keep him in South London. However, he could now be set for a transfer back to St James’ Park, as the Northern Echo reports that Rafa Benitez is hoping for a reunion with the England international.

It is believed that the North East club want to take advantage of the power vacuum and swoop for the winger this week, as they hope the player will push for a return. Townsend has a great relationship with Benitez and the club’s supporters, and, therefore, a move could appeal to him.

What would he add to Newcastle United’s squad?

There would be little risk connected to a move for Townsend as Newcastle already know what he is capable of, after his short spell at the club in 2016.

He contributed four goals and two assists as United failed to survive relegation during the 2015/16 campaign. The winger was one of the few players to end the season with credit, but it was a disappointment that he opted to leave the club after they fell into the Championship.

If he was to return, he would need to deliver some good performances to win back the complete support of the fan-base.

Benitez will understand the importance of adding Premier League experience to his squad this summer, as he has built a young squad over the past 12 months.

There are also concerns about the talent in the squad, which is why he will be looking to add players that have had success in the Premier League. Townsend certainly fits that bill.

He has been inconsistent for Palace, but the Magpies’ boss will believe that he can improve the winger given the opportunity to coach him for a sustained period of time.

At Selhurst Park, the winger contributed three goals and four assists, which isn’t good enough for a player that wants to be an England regular.

His average of 1.78 chances created and two attempted shots per ninety minutes show that he can be a threat in the attacking half, but his decision-making is questionable at times. This would improve if he was working under a world class coach like Benitez.

Newcastle lacked a genuine threat down their left wing in the Championship and this is the role that Townsend would likely play. His dynamism and direct running would provide the Magpies with another attacking threat.

Meanwhile, his past experience at St James’ Park should mean that he needs less time to settle in.