Newcastle have rounded off the window in style as they look to move on from Alexander Isak's decision to quit
Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of Newcastle United, and Jamie Rueben
Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of Newcastle United, and Jamie Rueben
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has insisted that the Magpies were not hamstrung by a lack of a sporting director or CEO this summer.
Former Real Madrid executive David Hopkinson has been touted to replace Darren Eales this autumn while a new transfer chief to take over from ex-Monaco supremo Paul Mitchell is also expected.
But Howe feels that the combination of head of recruitment Steve Nickson, Andy Howe and his backroom team, combined with constant support and attendance from PIF helped deliver six new signings and a spend of over £252m, as well as the trickier assignment of replacing Alexander Isak.
The message from PIF, according to insiders at the club, is that United's Saudi backers are "proud" of the work done in the summer window while director Jamie Reuben also hailed the work done by the owners after last week's Champions League draw in Monaco.
Responding to talk of a tough backdrop internally this summer, Howe said: "No, I don't think so. It was great to see them (PIF).
"Whenever the owners are here it's greatly appreciated by myself because I think everyone can see we are together as a football club. Which we very much are.
"But sometimes people don't see that. We're so strong. So it's great to see them.
"But at no time have I felt we needed that beforehand."
The Isak situation dragged on over the summer with the want away Sweden star eager to join Liverpool before finally getting his wish on deadline day.
Newcastle reacted before and after Isak's sale by bringing in Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart at £69m before the £50m move for Yoane Wissa wen through on the final day of trading, all done without a sporting director.
Howe said: "We've got a team of people doing all sorts of different things at the club.
"And with Alex's situation, I don't think there was ever going to be a quick resolution."