Jack Colback has struggled to make an impact in pre-season and the arrival of Mikel Merino at Newcastle United is unlikely to aid his cause.
Jack Colback was a key figure for Newcastle United as they won the Championship last season.
The former Sunderland midfielder largely shared duties with Isaac Hayden alongside Jonjo Shelvey, making 29 league appearances in all.
It was a surprise, therefore, when the Chronicle reported at the start of June that Rafa Benitez had made Colback available for a move this summer.
There has been little talk of a transfer since then, but the events of the last few weeks have further suggested the 27-year-old – who earned an England call-up shortly after joining his boyhood club at St James’ Park – could be headed for an exit.
Benitez is keen for balance in his side and Colback, the club’s only left-footed midfield man, offered that until the signing of Mikel Merino on Friday.
Merino, also left-footed, has far more pedigree than Colback, plays in the same position and has the potential to improve further; he looks like a direct replacement.
Yet Colback was even struggling for pitch time before the Spaniard’s loan arrival, failing to start any of Newcastle’s opening three pre-season games.
Even with Hayden out injured for a clash with Hearts, Mo Diame – an attacking force last term – dropped back to play alongside Shelvey.
Colback looks to have fallen out of favour under Benitez and Merino’s arrival could push the Killingworth-born midfielder further towards a move.
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