Wilfried Zaha: Newcastle’s Missing Link?

Wilfried Zaha is one of England’s most promising and exciting players. Having made his name during Crystal Palace’s promotion winning side of 2012/13, Zaha signed for Manchester United last January and was immediately loaned back to the Eagles, winning Championship Player of the Year.

There were high expectations going into the 20 year old’s first season at the Premier League Champions.

However chances have been limited under David Moyes with Nani, Antonio Valencia, Danny Welbeck and Ryan Giggs ranked higher in the pecking order, so it is unlikely that Zaha will add much to his substitute appearance for United in the Community Shield.

The England international has been linked with a whole host of teams who would love to take him on loan. These teams include Stoke, Southampton and Fulham but it seems Newcastle United are the favourites to sign the player come the January transfer window.

Zaha is sure to be an astute signing for Alan Pardew whose side lie 11^th in the Premier League. The youngster plays predominantly on the wing.

He is well capable of beating his man and can whip in dangerous crosses which would be very beneficial to Papiss Cisse, Newcastle’s main striker. However competition for the winger place would be tough with Hatem Ben Arfa and Yoan Gouffran vying for the same position.

However the Magpies could switch to a 4-4-2 formation with Zaha and Gouffran playing the wide role; Moussa Sissoko, Cheick Tiote or Yohan Cabaye in midfield which then leaves Loic Remy to play more centrally next to, or just behind Papiss Cisse. The crossing threat would increase with the ariel presence of the two forwards.

This deal has to be considered seriously by the Newcastle staff. Zaha could be who the Toon Army were looking for. Someone to bring a bit of excitement to St James’ Park and with no Europa League football to worry about, Newcastle should be looking realistically at the top half of the table, if not higher.

Would you welcome Zaha to St James’ Park or would you rather have a permanent solution?