Rafa Benitez has made no secret of his disappointment with Newcastle's efforts during the summer transfer window, but at least two of his signings are having a positive effect on the team - striker Joselu and midfielder Mikel Merino.

While Joselu has struggled for consistency in front of goal, scoring just once from four outings thus far, he's provided the physical presence and focal point in the final third that Dwight Gayle lacked during the first few games of the season.

Merino, meanwhile, has added real class and control to the midfield and was crucial to the Magpies claiming a third successive win against Stoke on Saturday.

Indeed, the 21-year-old Borussia Dortmund loanee, who Transfermarkt value at just £2.25million, completed the most passes of any Newcastle player, alongside the joint-most interceptions, the second-most tackles and five clearances.

Newcastle have a 'binding purchase option' in place that will come into effect after a certain number of appearances according to Dortmund's official website and judging on his early performances for the Magpies, that's already looking like a fine piece of business from the Tynesiders.

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