Three areas Newcastle United need to strengthen in January to win the title

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Newcastle will be looking to strengthen in the January transfer window as they attempt to build on a good first half of the season in the Championship. They are heading into the new year as the league leaders, despite having played one more match than Brighton and they will be optimistic about their chances of finishing in the top two. It is important that they retain their momentum and bring a couple of players in to add quality to the squad. They will need to be players that can compete right away and make the step up to the Premier League when required. Here are three positions that they should strengthen in January…

Central midfield

Their problems in midfield have been illuminated in the last two matches as they have had to deal without Jonjo Shelvey. The side have struggled to create chances and have had to rely on their wide players to make up the shortfall. Shelvey is a hugely influential figure for Newcastle and he has dominated numerous matches this season with his vision and passing range. However, he will be missing for the next three matches and Newcastle need to find a player to compete and cover for his position. Another ball playing centre midfielder is required and Benitez will know this.

Jack Colback and Isaac Hayden are the other two regular starters at Newcastle, but they are more robust and lack the technical ability that Shelvey has. They don’t influence the match as regularly and Newcastle look a much worse team without Shelvey in the side. There have been a few players mentioned in the press and by supporters about possible January signings. Fabian Delph is believed to be on Newcastle’s radar and he would be a great purchase. He has struggled for minutes at Manchester City, but remains a very good Premier League player. Conor Hourihane is another player that could be looked at as his contract continues to run down.