Newcastle United's new manager Matthias Jaissle is under scrutiny as the club faces a season of transition, with comparisons drawn to legendary figures like Brian Clough and cautionary tales like Ruben Amorim.
Preseason struggles and transfer frustration
Newcastle's first home preseason friendly saw a new manager introduced in an all too familiar way. After a 3-1 defeat to Everton on neutral ground, Bayer Leverkusen added further concern with a 2-1 win. These back-to-back placid kickabouts at St James' Park can never replicate the intensity of Liverpool and Spurs, but they offer clues about what lies ahead.
Transfer activity has been slow, with full-back positions remaining barren as a deal for Amar Dedic grinds on. Bruno's midfield bolthole remains empty, and fans are promised a 'welcome home' with Dedic eventually completed, but more is needed.
Jaissle's appointment and captaincy choice
Of all the new faces, Jaissle will be under the most scrutiny. The question is whether he will emulate Brian Clough, who drove the team bus at Hartlepool before becoming a double European Cup champion, or Arsene Wenger, who arrived from Japan's backwaters, or whether he will be more like Ruben Amorim, a young coach who struggled under the burden of expectancy at Manchester United.
Jaissle's decision to appoint Dan Burn as skipper amid the chaos was a no-brainer. Burn, a giant Geordie with a heart as big as a frying pan, is an England international and a Wembley winner, loved and respected in the dressing room.
A season of transition
The task facing Jaissle and Burn is Herculean. It will take all their determination, grit, pride, and skills to keep the good ship Newcastle United sailing in a strong wind. They left port with no expectations from neutrals but oceans of good will from the faithful.
Reality and caution are advised over unbridled optimism with the assembly of the Young Ones under a new boss. This remains the only fair stance in what will inevitably be a season of transition. Desire must not cloud facts, or bitter disappointment could become the staple diet.
