His arrival to Newcastle went under the radar amid the signings of Bruno Guimaraes and the homecoming of Dan Burn, but Matt Targett has slowly become one of the first names on the team sheet, putting in consistently solid displays on the left of a much-improved defence.
His loan from Aston Villa expires in the summer and it’s not unfair to say that there’s a strong belief within the fan base that the left-back should be added to the squad on a permanent basis when the window opens.
Whilst Eddie Howe wouldn’t commit to any potential future plans of making his loan move a permanent one, he did reveal that he has been ‘pleased’ with Targett’s contributions this season: “Matt has done very well, there’s still games to play this season and decisions still to be fully formed but he’s performed very well and fitted into the team and group very well.
“He’s been very consistent with his performances.
“You look at the winning goal we scored on Sunday, Matt was there at the beginning of the move to have the composure not just to kick the ball out of play, but deal with the defensive situation first and then to have the quality to find Joe Willock.
“I think he’s done very, very well - we are very pleased with him”
Check out the latest Premier League transfer speculation below...
5. Barkley in demand
Leeds United, Newcastle United and Everton have all been listed as possible destinations for Ross Barkley this summer. The midfielder looks set to leave Chelsea in a cut-price deal. (90min) | Getty Images
6. Toon could swoop for Belotti
Newcastle United and West Ham could prove to be ‘more attractive’ options for Torino striker Andrea Belotti. The Italian is expected to move once his contract expires in June. (Torino Granata) | Getty Images
7. Nketiah wants out
Eddie Nketiah has once again opened the door to an Arsenal exit after admitting that he wants to play regular football. The striker has previously been linked with Brighton and Crystal Palace. (Beautiful Game Podcast) | AFP via Getty Images
8. Toon keen on Toney
Newcastle United have turned their attention to Brentford striker Ivan Toney as they target a new striker this summer. A deal for the player could cost upwards of £30m. Arsenal, West Ham, Everton, and Wolves are also keen. (Telegraph) | Getty Images