Newcastle United fans are used to anti-climaxes so perhaps we should not be surprised by the lack of transfer activity at St James's Park so far this summer.
As ever, big things were expected from the Magpies as they look to build on the encouraging end to last season. Big moves made, exciting names arriving and the gradual construction of a squad which will compete for a Uefa Cup place next season.
Instead, all we have had is fresh doubts about who is in charge of player recruitment - manager Kevin Keegan or Executive Director (football) Dennis Wise - reports the main priority before the start of the new season is to slash the wage bill and the departure of the one truly creative player in the squad, Emre.
I should be sad to see the departure of Emre as I've championed his ability for the last three years, but the bottom line is he wasn't fit often enough to make an impact and he was a luxury player United simply couldn't afford anymore.
It made sense for him to return to Turkey with Fenerbahce - but don't be surprised if he turns out to be one of the stars of Euro 2008. He is still an excellent player, when not nursing some strain or other.
As for the transfer market, Newcastle fans shouldn't be too disheartened. It has been a sluggish start to the summer and, as Sunderland manager Roy Keane suggested this week, nothing much will happen until after the European Championships because everyone wants to see if any players emerge in that tournament.
Tellingly, Keegan appears to be more interested in enjoying a family holiday at the moment than he is in leading the pursuit of his transfer targets. We all need a break Kev, but I hope you've still got an interest in what's happening back home as well as your suntan!
At this stage it seems that United have only made one firm move in the market, for Turkey winger Arda Turan. I've not seen much of him, but he looks as though he could be an excellent player. Sadly, should he shine at Euro 2008, Newcastle could be out manoeuvred by a rival who is able to offer European football next season.
However, the Magpies are also interested in Peter Crouch and Jorn Arne Riise, who in my opinion, would both be excellent signings for a team looking to compete for a European place.
They are both proven Premier League players who have been important members of a Liverpool side which has consistently finished in the top four.
Unlike some other names I could mention, they also have the sort of character which would prevent them from simply going through the motions if they leave Anfield!
As for the link with Dean Ashton, a strange one considering it came on the day he agreed a new contract with West Ham. Kite flying and stabs in the dark spring to mind. Oh well, it is that time of year I suppose. Maybe we should all just learn to be a little more patient. It's a virtue apparently!
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