Noel Whelan shocked seeing ‘consistent’ Targett pushed ‘out the door’

Matt Targett is having a successful loan spell at Newcastle United after being deemed surplus to requirements at Aston Villa, but Noel Whelan admitted being shocked that Steven Gerrard was so quick to push him out the exit door.

He told Football Insider: “Steven Gerrard, very quickly, got him out the door to Newcastle. He’s one of these players that is very consistent. It was a surprise when he left.”

Gerrard took over from Dean Smith in mid-November but made up his mind about the 26-year-old just weeks later. He made a move for Lucas Digne in January and allowed Targett a departure before the winter transfer window shut.

Newcastle have the option to sign Targett for £15m at the end of the season and Whelan predicts they’ll trigger his release clause. The 26-year-old has been in fine form at St James’ Park, so there’s little reason why the Magpies wouldn’t want him permanently.

Whelan added: “Absolutely. I think discussions will have taken place already. He’s been fantastic for Newcastle, results and performances are proving that. I think that is one that is written already. He has done enough to deserve a contract. It is just about sorting a fee out for the player.”

Targett joined Villa from Southampton in 2019 and has gone on to make 89 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals with five assists. The former England youth international has made 12 appearances across the board for Newcastle and quickly won supporters over, so he might be swapping clubs this summer.

Villa paid £14m for Targett, so they’ll be delighted to make £15m back. Newcastle are weighing up the pros and cons, however, so nothing is guaranteed.

In other news, Aston Villa shouldn’t sign Seko Fofana