Newcastle United

Expectations were naturally raised at St James' Park, something which continued when Eddie Howe was given the licence to break the club's transfer record with the acquisition of Alexander Isak.

However, the number of arrivals over the past two transfer windows have led to new homes having to be found for numerous players in order to give them game time and further their development.

Here, Sports Mole takes a look at how Newcastle's loan players are faring during their time away from the North-East giants.

WHICH PLAYERS ARE FINDING IT BENEFICIAL?

Such has been the change of expectations at St James' Park that Jeff Hendrick has no future at the Magpies going forward.

Nevertheless, the Republic of Ireland international is doing everything possible to salvage his career, starring in his 10 starts for Reading in the Championship.

Matty Longstaff is good enough to be playing at a higher level than League Two, but the academy graduate at least has three starts to his name for Colchester United.

Down in the National League, Dan Langley is receiving his first stint of senior football, making six starts for fellow North-East side Gateshead.

WHICH PLAYERS NEED MORE TIME?

Newcastle have a number of players who have headed out on loan that are yet to make any kind of an impact at their respective clubs.

A knee injury has prevented Isaac Hayden from turning out for Norwich City, while Ciaran Clark played just twice for Sheffield United before sustaining a significant hamstring injury.

Kell Watts is still working his way towards fitness at Peterborough United after a knee injury, and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is yet to be given any game time at Manchester United.

Midfielder Lucas De Bolle has moved to Scottish Championship side Hamilton Academical and played his first 19 minutes last weekend.