Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United team is performing exceptionally well in the current Premier League season, indicating that the club’s recruitment department has been consistently making excellent choices when it comes to player acquisitions. This stands in contrast to other clubs, Chelsea being a notable example, where a seemingly limitless budget doesn’t guarantee wise spending.
Newcastle’s approach to recruitment has been diligent, with Howe also making the necessary decisions to part ways with players who don’t align with his vision. Considering their impressive performance over the last 18 months, it’s hard to dispute the effectiveness of the manager and his staff’s approach.
One such player who left the club during the summer transfer window was Isaac Hayden, a player signed by the previous management but was no longer in the club’s plans. He made a move to Standard Liege, which might have raised eyebrows at first, but Hayden had his reasons for this decision.
“Standard is a fantastic club with passionate fans. Their support is incredible, and I’m content with my start here. However, I believe we can achieve even greater heights,” Hayden explained to Walfoot.
He had options to continue his career in England, but as he grew older, he wanted a fresh challenge. Approaching 29 at the end of the season, he felt it was the right time to experience a new league and a different kind of competition.
“With all due respect to the Championship, I believe I’m capable of performing at a higher level when I’m at my best. I’ve played for three of the top teams in that division – Newcastle, Hull City, and Norwich. I know what I can bring to the table when I’m in peak condition, so I chose to switch leagues to maintain a high level of performance.”
Interestingly, Hayden hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to Newcastle or any other English club that may express interest in his services.
“In football, things can change rapidly. Right now, I’m focused solely on Standard, and we’ll see if I ever consider a return to England,” he added.
However, it’s unlikely that there will be a place for him at St. James’ Park in the future. Eddie Howe had valid reasons for not including him in the team, and it’s improbable that this stance will change as the club continues its upward trajectory.
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