Newcastle finished last season in the 10th place, conceding 47 goals which were less than sixth-placed Arsenal. They have only conceded more than Burnley and the top five teams in the EPL and that is an impressive statistic.
A report from Chronicle Live has claimed that the Magpies have looked into the availability of Fulham right-back, Ryan Fredericks, as they look to maintain their impressive defensive record.
Fredericks played an important role in securing promotion for Fulham where he played as a right-back and sometimes a defensive midfielder.
Over the course of the last season, Fredericks also registered 9 assists which is more than Ozil’s 8 assists for Arsenal in the EPL.
Fredericks’ contract expires this summer, making it an ideal situation for Newcastle to join the battle over him. They can bring him in as a free agent and that can help them spend money on other areas, like their attack.
The Magpies scored few goals relative to other sides in the league as they notched up a humble 39 goals, which is just 7 more than what Mohammad Salah did for Liverpool.
They lack the creativity to make plays that produce goals and an addition like Fredericks – who runs down the flank and crosses – will definitely provide the Magpies with goalscoring opportunities.
Let’s face it, as long he can cross better than Hector Bellerin, he will be a useful asset for the boys in black and white stripes.
West Ham United are also interested and since Fredericks appears to be a lucrative signing, the Magpies will have to fend off competition, while Fulham was also connected to rumours about signing Bristol City’s left-back Joe Bryan this summer according to sources.
Another question to be answered is, whether or not Fredericks would be open to the prospect of making a move away from Fulham. Since Fulham have been promoted to the Premier League, there’s a good chance that the club will try to renew a contract with him and fight to stay in the top-flight next season.
Bookies are also encouraged by Fulham’s playing ability, therefore giving some betting options for this Premier League come back team. Having Fredericks in their team would certainly increase their odds for staying in Premier League, but it is not crucial according to many online sites dedicated to all football betting lovers. Staying is something what Fredericks would agree to, so this team will have much better odds to achieve their full potential in next season, you can bet on that!
After the playoff win against Aston Villa, Fredericks said: “It’s up to the people behind the scenes but I’m sure everyone will want to stay and play at the highest level with Fulham and see what we can achieve.”
This doesn’t appear to be great news for The Magpies. If they can lure him to St. James Park, he will be a solid addition to a squad that lacks a quality right-back. On that front, Fredericks will not only help them defensively but also provide a good attacking equilibrium.
