Newcastle United narrowly beat Brentford at Griffin Park this weekend to jump back ahead of Brighton into top spot in the Championship.

After a couple of blips in the past few weeks, Benitez will be relieved to see his side back at the summit of the second tier.

Promotion is the expectation: Newcastle simply won't settle for anything less.

That's why nerves were starting to show as Reading began to close the gap between the automatic spots and the play-off zone.

But the Magpies have stretched clear again, relieved by defeats for both title rivals Brighton and the chasing Reading.

Benitez may be tempted to roll the dice in January and add a couple of new faces to properly equip his side for the run-in.

However, the January window can be make or break and Newcastle need to ensure that these 2 things do not happen to them this month.

Mitrovic exit

The big burly Serb may be playing second fiddle to Dwight Gayle at the moment but he is definitely a star for the future.

The 22-year-old can produce a moment of madness or a moment of genius and he is a worthwhile asset to have, considering his age.

With some Premier League clubs and European giants chasing Mitrovic's signature, Newcastle must insist he is not for sale, especially after Dwight Gayle picked up an injury against Brentford.

Unnecessary signings

Rafa Benitez has to be careful that any new additions this month are completely necessary.

Newcastle have been linked with plenty of luxury players which seem to be more "for the sake of it" rather than to improve a problem position.

The squad he has at his disposal is Premier League standard and they seem to have bonded well so he shouldn't just add players for no reason as it may disrupt the balance and chemistry of the team.

 

Newcastle fans - do you agree? What do you need to do this January? Let us know in the comments below...