10 Newcastle Players Who Could Be Revitalised By Steve McClaren

10. Tim Krul

The Dutchman had undoubtedly the worst six months of his career to date under John Carver. An injury kept Krul out for eight games around Christmas, and his long-awaited return last season was anything but spectacular. Rumours have been rife all summer that Krul is actually seeking pastures new - and a reunion with former boss Alan Pardew at Crystal Palace has already been touted. There are two main reasons why McClaren's arrival on Tyneside may spark a revival in Krul and convince him to stay though. First of all, Karl Darlow has now finally arrived following his season-long loan deal at Nottingham Forest - and he is being reunited with his former boss from the City Ground. Darlow is thought of exceptionally highly by the Magpies backroom staff and, should Krul fail to rekindle his best form, he could well be leapfrogged in the Newcastle side. That should provide Krul with the motivation to hold on to his No 1 jersey. Perhaps more importantly, however, is the mere presence of McClaren himself. Every interview McClaren has done to date he has been positive and he spoken of his desire to move higher up the table and win trophies with Newcastle. Also, the fact McClaren is not Carver can only benefit Krul - his methods will be different and more orchestrated. Hopefully that message will seep through to an ambitious and talented goalkeeper like Krul - and as a result get the best out of him. Tim Krul on top form is one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League - and boy have Newcastle missed players of that class in recent months.