Choppy waters

hasn’t won since.

Benitez has spoken before about the “short blanket” theory, and once stated: “If you cover your head, your feet are cold”.

This was in reference to his limited options, if Newcastle defend too much with everybody behind the ball, he knows his team will struggle for goals.

But if Newcastle try to push forward too often and fail to convert, they are going to be exposed defensively, which is exactly what happened on Saturday at times.

That will only be changed through investment, but with Ashley already telling us he “can’t” and “will not” compete with the big boys, the situation is hardly going to get better.

United continue to stumble down the corridor of uncertainty wondering whether a saviour can help haul them away from a relegation battle.

When Newcastle tumbled out of the Premier League in 2016, they not only lost the right to rub shoulders with Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Spurs, and Arsenal, but they also slipped behind teams like Watford, Burnley and AFC Bournemouth – something that makes the battle against the drop even tougher these days.

The Magpies haven’t managed to scrape a single point – or even a goal – against those three and perhaps the top-flight table is starting to have a more realistic look to it.

Even if there is a takeover in time for the January window, it may not result in Newcastle splashing out on players just yet.

However, it will turn the page on the Ashley era and give cause for optimism at St James’ Park going into the New Year.

And you can’t say the fans don’t deserve it.

Yet another full house turned up to see Newcastle take on the Hornets and not once did they display any type of protest towards the current owner. Instead, especially at 3-0 down, the United faithful’s backing towards the team simply got louder and louder.

As Newcastle players applauded the fans who were still in the stadium at the end, they looked embarrassed.

With two away games, against West Brom then Chelsea, it’s not about to get any easier.

If Newcastle fail to emerge with anything from the next two matches, the SOS calls could emerge soon from the stands.