Jose Enrique is doubtful that Newcastle United will be able to attract marquee signings in the January window.
The new Toon owners will get their first crack at transfers from January 1 when the window swings open for business and the club will start their new approach when it comes to recruitment.
In previous years Newcastle have tried to scrimp and save during transfer windows much to the frustration of the Geordie faithful.
Now though comes a different test as the powers that be look to improve the team and ensure they can fend off the threat of relegation as early as possible.
Enrique, speaking on behalf of 888sport, said: "It’s difficult for Newcastle.
"They have one month before the transfer window starts and it’s certainly harder to attract top players to come to a club that is several points behind the rest.
"To a club where relegation is a possibility in reality.
"So, a lot depends on how December goes for them and hopefully this win will push them forward.
"It is important they are still in touch with the clubs around them and that will allow them to make a case to get in good players who can help them get away from the difficult situation."
Enrique has blasted Mike Ashley in recent days and feels that very little changed at St James' Park from the day he quit for Liverpool in 2011 to the present day.
Speaking on the fans, Enrique said: "They deserve everything because the fans are incredible.
"I know how frustrated they have been and I was frustrated myself when I played there.
"When renewing my contract I had doubts because we were selling very important players and I was told no-one was coming in, that was the reality and it’s been the reality ever since I left the club.
"I played five years at Liverpool and I’ve been retired five years and nothing changed (at Newcastle) in that time.
"So I’m really, really happy for the city and for the fans.
"Now they have money they have to assess.
Obviously, they’re going to buy good players but it’s not just about that.
"They need to put the club in the right direction and have the right manager, who I believe they do have now.
"They also need to approach the right kind of players.
"Do they go for big names or do they target players like Saint-Maximin, the kind who have the desire to prove themselves as top players.
"You look at Manchester City and they went for Yaya Toure and Robinho and that worked for them.
"But maybe it’s better to go the other way."
José Enrique, was speaking on behalf of 888sport
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