Five Mags fighting to keep first-team place after cup final reality check - The Telegraph

According to The Telegraph, Dan Burn, Fabian Schar, Sean Longstaff, Miguel Almiron and Callum Wilson's place in Eddie Howe's first-team could be under threat as Newcastle approach 'phase two' of this ambitious project under new ownership.

This doesn't mean that any of these players will be sold off in the summer - they all remain integral parts of the squad - but it seems another recruitment drive is likely this summer to improve our starting XI and boost the overall quality of the squad.

It's a tough decision - all five have had great runs in the team and shown immense passion for the shirt. However, to compete at the very top, there is an acceptance that certain areas of the first team must improve.

Burn in particular has had a tough time as of late down that left-hand side and the club have already been linked with a host of left-backs, such as Alex Grimaldo, Kieran Tierney and Borna Sosa.

A new right-winger has also been a priority for some time - Diaby and Maddison were heavily linked last summer - while a defensive midfielder who could've taken Longstaff's place and pushed Bruno further forward was targeted in January.

Wilson has been a great servant and still has plenty to offer, but he turned 31 yesterday and has looked a shadow of his former self since the World Cup, leaving some to wonder if injuries are catching up with the striker.

This doesn't mean all five would no longer have big roles to play. There's no question about their commitment to this team. Schar has been a revelation and is ageing like a fine win, while Almiron is here to stay after penning a new three-and-a-half year deal last week. However, to kick on, the likes of Burn and Longstaff may become squad men before long.