It started as a bit of an up and down campaign, but has accelerated predominantly downwards since mid-December with Steve Bruce’s Magpies on a run of two wins in 20 games in all competitions at present.
United currently sit just two points above third bottom Fulham, with a significantly worse goal difference, although they do have a game in hand on the Cottagers.
Here our writer Liam Kennedy has pored over the ratings from the opening 29 fixtures and averaged out the best and worst performers. To get a rating each player must have started at least five Premier League games, cup appearances or bench showings are not included – a rule which cuts out recently restored Martin Dubravka, Geordie duo Matty Longstaff and Andy Carroll (all four) and out of favour and out of form striker Dwight Gayle (two).
5. 17. Ryan Fraser - 5.44 (nine starts)
The Scotland international was signed to make a big impact in the final third, he's done anything but. Fitness and then a loss of form has meant Fraser is yet to really get off and running for Bruce & Co this campaign. What looked a good signing on paper, is yet to prove so. Photo: Stu Forster
6. 16. Javier Manquillo - 5.5 (10 starts)
The call for the Spaniard's return was big in recent months, but is the defender any better than Krafth? The ratings from this season don't seem to suggest that. He was, however, one of the most improved players at United last season. Photo: Clive Rose
7. 15. Jacob Murphy - 5.62 (eight starts)
A clamour for Murphy to start is not really backed up by his performances - well, not when he has started, anyway. A bright show at Wolves then saw a steady decline before another sub cameo against Nuno Espirito Santo's side has again brought the winger into the Newcastle United conversation. Photo: RICHARD SELLERS
8. 14. Matt Ritchie - 5.66 (six starts)
Just scrapes into the ratings, but has used less this season than ever before at Newcastle. Very close to a January exit and you can see why, as when called upon he's lacked the drive and bite of Ritchie of years gone by. Photo: Julian Finney