20 Key Things We Learned From Newcastle's Fans Forum Minutes

2. Improvements Will Be Made To The Squad So They Can Challenge For The Top Eight

As of yet, Newcastle have made precisely zero signings so far this summer. Yet the club insists they are trying to build a squad that will "challenge for the top eight" going forward. When asked about signings, McClaren said:

"If we create that environment, people - players - will follow. It's about setting up, getting the players in and identifying what success is. We want to win something and get into the top eight. That's been stated by the owner and that's our objective. How we get there is our job. You start right at the bottom in terms of what you create, the culture and the climate, what rules you set, the discipline, how you work, the professionalism, the character.

Paul Loughlin, the East Stand Representative, then asked: "There has been a lot said over the last few months about the current squad of players. What's your view on that current squad and how much potential do you see?" McClaren responded:

"We're trying to raise the standards. The key thing is talking to the players one-on-one. The majority of people who say things about players don't have the benefit of knowing what goes on behind the scenes."

In terms of where the squad might be strengthened, there were also a couple of questions about this, although the answer was quite coy. Brian Parkin, the Gallowgate Stand Representative, asked: "Did you have an idea of the positions you want to strengthen before you arrived, or is it from scratch on the training ground?" To which McClaren said:

"I've talked to the current staff and board but I also know the players so we've got a good idea of what we need."

Let's hope that means the likes of Georginio Wijnaldum, Charlie Austin and Joel Matip are going to arrive soon then...