Newcastle's next midfield star is thriving on loan, he is the real deal
Matthias Jaissle must pay attention to Rory Finneran's progress away from Newcastle as he shines on loan at Notts County.
Jaissle is under pressure at St James' Park right now following a disappointing start to his tenure as Newcastle manager.
The club's chiefs are unlikely to make a change in the dugout soon, but rumours are bound to persist if they continue to struggle.
He will already be looking ahead to the new year for the chance to bolster his squad, which seems to be lacking in numerous areas.
Young midfielder Finneran may emerge as a genuine option for the Magpies' first-team in January as he impresses in the EFL.
Newcastle have the option to recall the 18-year-old back to Tyneside, and that may well need to happen if he keeps smashing it at Notts County.
Rory Finneran emerging as a key man for Notts County as Newcastle falter
Finneran progressed through Blackburn's academy to become their youngest-ever player when he featured in an FA Cup clash at 15 in January 2024.
He joined Newcastle's academy set-up later that year and has continued to impress in their youth sides over the last few seasons.
The 18-year-old has left for his first senior loan spell this season, and has registered one goal and assist each in eight appearances from central midfield for third tier side Notts County so far.
Finneran shone in County's 2-0 midweek win over promotion-chasing Sheffield Wednesday, assisting the second late on with a delightful turn and pass as he ran the show against an experienced, quality opposition midfield.
The Republic of Ireland international completed the most passes (42) of any player on the pitch, while he made the joint-most ball recoveries (9), created two chances and won five duels.
He is among the best League One midfielders for successful dribbles (0.83), duels won (5.7), fouls won (1.67), tackles (2.36) and recoveries (6.12) per 90 minutes so far this season.
Newcastle can recall him when the next transfer window opens, and that may have to be considered as a real possibility if he continues to go from strength to strength at Meadow Lane.
Newcastle are planning midfield changes in January
It is clear that Jaissle's midfield balance is a big part of the issues that Newcastle are facing right now.
He has tried several different combinations and none seem to have worked well, with Nico Gonzalez the only player who can truly stake a claim for regular starts going forward.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Newcastle will consider selling Joe Willock in the next window for a cut-price fee as he nears the end of his contract.
They are interested in bolstering the area, with Brighton's Yasin Ayari a known target, but Finneran could provide a low-cost alternative as he looks ready to explode onto the first-team scene at St James' Park.