Newcastle United have missed out in the race to sign Daniel Sturridge from Liverpool, with West Bromwich Albion snapping up the striker.
Sturridge spoke with Rafael Benitez about moving to St. James’ Park, but decided that a switch to West Brom would be better for him.
Sturridge reportedly felt that West Brom’s style of football would help him more than Newcastle’s – and that may mean Benitez has to take some of the blame for the Magpies missing out.
Newcastle had offered Liverpool a loan fee, and agreed to meet all his wages, but West Brom was a more attractive switch for the England international.
Benitez may now be paying the price for playing so defensively over the campaign so far.
While Newcastle’s squad does have some serious limitations, there has to be some questions over whether Benitez could have shown more attacking intent.
Newcastle have actually scored more goals than West Brom this campaign, but Alan Pardew is regarded as a manager who likes to attack.
Newcastle are now on the hunt for alternative options, after missing out on Sturridge, as Benitez is desperate to add a forward to his ranks.
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