Despite Mike Ashley’s criticism from some Newcastle fans, the Toon owner has to be given some credit for the way he has handled things in the last 18 months.

Although Chris Hughton’s departure from the club didn't go down too well with the fans, the arrival of Alan Pardew has brought new life to the team from Tyneside.

If you would have told their fans that they would be above Liverpool in the league by 8 points with just 8 games to go, chasing Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur for Champions League spots, I’m pretty sure you wouldn't have been take seriously.

But make no mistake about it; the shrewd signings that have taken place in the newly named ‘Sports Direct stadium’ this season are most certainly paying dividends. Yohan Cabaye was brought from Lille for £5 million in Ligue 1, and he has already made a mark on the team. His composure and attacking assets on the ball have secured him a first team football in the Newcastle side.

Not only that, but he possess the type that complements the ever impressive Cheick Tiote who has been a driving force in that midfield for Newcastle.

Another transfer steal has to be one of the players of the season in Demba Ba, who was brought on a free last summer from West Ham United. The Senegal international has bagged 16 goals for Alan Pardew this season, and the arrival of international strike partner Papiss Cisse from Freiburg has only strengthened Pardew’s options up front. The departure of Andy Carroll may have seen a blow at the time but that £35m has been invested wisely and there is no question that Newcastle are a team better equipped to challenge the top end of the Premier League. The team  has bags of ability within it and the Magpies are certainly proving that you don't need to spend big in order to succeed in this League; with living proof being today's opposition Liverpool who have spent close to £120m in the last 12 months.

Newcastle are absolutely flying and despite a few barren seasons, that included that ill-fated spell in the Championship, the Magpies look to be back where they belong in the upper echelons in the Premier League and looking to secure European football next season.

I'm all for your opinions @RantiSamz

[ad_pod id='unruly-2' align='left']