Reality sign of the Tynes

THE expectation and hype of the Saudi-owned era of Newcastle does not match up with reality.

That was made clear when Eddie Howe admitted on Friday that he is not in the market for “elite, readymade” signings, this summer.

The United boss admitted he is shopping on a different level from the top six, in terms of wages and transfer fees.

That may sound familiar to those who have followed the Mike Ashley era.

But at least Newcastle are now in a bracket above those unhappy times, and don’t actively want to cash in on their best players.

And it is not too different from Man United chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe saying he wants to discover the next Kylian Mbappe rather than spend a fortune on the actual superstar.

But it is now crystal clear the Saudi project is a slower burner than some have hyped.

Pif-owned oil giant Aramco, one of the world’s richest firms, are sponsoring the FIFA events and the Saudi World Cup, not their club on Tyneside.

It was 14 months ago when director Amanda Staveley declared: “We will win the Carabao Cup, we will win the FA Cup, we will win the Champions League and we will win the Premier League.”

Chairman Yasir Al-rumayyan then said last July that Newcastle wanted “to be No.1”.

Not any time soon though. The consolation is Newcastle are now second tier challengers, winning games, and are fun to watch again.

But cup winners, they are not. Yet. And it doesn’t sound like Howe will get the financial tools to be on a par with the top six this summer.

“We have to sign players with the potential to become world class…” he says.

“Outside expectations aren’t linear with what is the reality of what you are working with. I think then you become a little bit frustrated.

“Talk and rumours that we are supposed to be signing these players, it lifts expectations but the reality has been different for us.”

The last word...

LEEDS fans should not panic about their promotion prospects.

Daniel Farke has fashioned a strong, exciting, energetic team capable of finishing in the top two, or winning the play-offs.

Crysencio Summerville has 19 goals and nine assists this season, and has led the attacking stats.

Patrick Bamford looks sharp, and although injured, Dan James will be a miss – expect the Yorkshire club to hold their nerve.