Steve Nickson is the unsung hero for Newcastle United’s Premier League turnaround

Eddie Howe, his staff, the players and the new consortium at St James’ Park are rightfully earning all the plaudits for Newcastle’s dramatic turnaround. An impressive nine-game unbeaten run has propelled the Magpies to 14th in the table and, more importantly, 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

Fears over becoming the richest club in the Championship have diminished and supporters are already dreaming about the prospect of next season. Everyone at the club deserves a pat on the back for a U-turn in form since January.

Players and manager aside, however, nobody deserves higher praise than Steve Nickson. The Magpies’ head of recruitment has endured a turbulent time over the last few months.

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When new owners come in, it is not just the players and coaching staff who are scrutinised. Nickson’s role was also placed under the microscope as there was simply no room for error in the January transfer market. Newcastle had to get it right - and Nickson delivered.

Under Mike Ashley’s ownership, Nickson collaborated with the manager and Lee Charnley, recommending targets and leading the club’s scouting network for players who could turn over a tidy profit. Taking over from Graham Carr, his hands were clearly tied by Ashley's frugal approach but that did not stop him from having a major impact on the club.

While the manager - especially Rafa Benitez - always had the final say, Nickson’s knowledge of UK-based players was one of the club’s most underappreciated assets. When Steve Bruce prioritised established top-flight players to help keep Newcastle up ahead of his second season in charge, on a limited budget, Nickson headhunted Callum Wilson,