Newcastle United, with aspirations of qualifying Europe again this year, failed to make any major signings, whereas rivals like West Ham United, Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion did.
Eddie Howe and his squad have been dealt a bad hand for the first-half of the campaign but the Magpies’ head coach has called for unity.
“I understand the fans frustration and I share it,” said Howe. “We’re all in it together. From ownership to me and supporters, we need one united cause - and that’s a cause against everyone we’re playing. What we can’t do as a football club is tear ourselves a part, we have to be united now more than ever. That’s starts from me, to the board and supporters.
“Whatever frustration people will feel, the biggest thing for me is to get behind the players and try and help them in every way. On the matchday, like the supporters have from day one, do the same. I think we are formidable force when we are linked together.”
For all the frustration, Howe’s side have indeed made a respectable start to the season, claiming four points from a possible six against Southampton and AFC Bournemouth, as well as beating Nottingham Forest in the second round of the Carabao Cup - a fixture where Sandro Tonali made his return after his 10-month ban.
United will hope their unbeaten start continues against Spurs today - and here’s the starting XI we’re predicting Howe to name.