Why the signing of Dan Burn could prove vital in Newcastle United’s quest to avoid relegation

The signing of Dan Burn could be one which has more influence on the second half of the Magpies’ season than many may realise.

Signing a central defender has been key in this window for Newcastle, as leaking goals is one of the reasons the Magpies have found themselves occupying the bottom three for most of the campaign so far.

With Burn signing on the dotted line, Newcastle have a centre back with connections to the club, some years ahead of him and a good amount of top flight experience under his belt.

Burn may not whet the appetite like exciting new signing Bruno Guimarães, for example, but his importance in the new era at St James’ Park cannot be overstated.

Scoring goals hasn’t been the biggest worry for Eddie Howe’s men. Although it is a big concern, the more pressing matter is plugging the gaps at the other end of the pitch.

The 43 goals conceded in 21 Premier League games so far this season is the second worst in the league behind Norwich City.

In Burn, Newcastle have brought on board a player who has played an integral role in Brighton & Hove Albion’s rise from potential relegation scrap candidates to battling for a top half finish.

Burn’s physical presence is something that almost every successful defence has, too.

A player who can read the game and settle down a fragile back line will make for a priceless addition to Howe’s squad, even if he isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing to watch; when you’re a centre back this isn’t something you need to get too concerned about.

Newcastle are in need of players who will keep them in the Premier League, this is something which goes without saying.

They now have a defender who has learned his trade throughout the football league and who has proven himself as a regular performer at the top level in the English game.

It has been a productive transfer window on Tyneside, and the countdown is now to when Newcastle fans can see their new signings in action.

The second half of the season will be no picnic, but recruiting the likes of Burn will go a long way to start addressing the many issues the Magpies have had on the pitch in recent years.