In what will be a long slog of a season, Rafa Benitez will require both strength-in-depth and consistently fit players at his disposal if Newcastle are to be successful in their quest for promotion.

The brittle squad he inherited near the end of last season is currently undergoing a fascinating transformation into a group of committed, hard-working and versatile players.

United have made eight signings so far this window – soon to be nine – with the arrival of Hull City’s Mohamed Diame, and one of the main themes that has been explored by Benitez is versatility.

The Spaniard has discussed how the likes of Vurnon Anita, Isaac Hayden, Jesus Gamez and Ciaran Clark all offer the versatility needed to cover in a multitude of positions and to many managers, these players are often integral cogs in their footballing machine.

Here, I earmark some of the most versatile players in Newcastle’s squad that could be key to guiding the Magpies to that much-needed promotion this season.

Vurnon Anita

Possible positions: Right-back, Left-back, Centre-midfield, Right-midfield.

The industrious Dutchman is perhaps one of the most underrated players in United’s squad, and over the past few months, Benitez has grown to admire his versatility.

When asked what Anita’s best position is earlier this week, Rafa said: “I said the other day: everywhere.”

“But he’s a professional and he was playing as a right full-back for Ajax, so he’s been playing as a full-back here, filling in at left full-back.”

“He’s clever, he’s someone you can trust and I am very happy with him.”

As a graduate of Ajax’s illustrious academy, it comes as no surprise that the 27-year-old is tactically aware and clever both off the ball and on it.

His ability to play well in a number of positions makes him a key member of the Magpies’ ensemble, and he’s my one to watch for this upcoming campaign.

Isaac Hayden

Possible positions: Centre-midfield, Right-back, Centre-back.

Arriving from Arsenal, Hayden predominantly plays as a central-midfielder, but he can also fill in at nearly every spot of the back four.

The 21-year-old has featured heavily in pre-season and his performances have clearly impressed Benitez, his coaching staff and the fans alike.

Upon signing, Rafa described Hayden as “hungry to succeed” and lauded his ability to play in multiple positions.

Having spent last season in the Championship with playoff winners Hull, Hayden offers plenty of experience and knowledge for a footballer only 21 years of age.

Ciaran Clark

Possible positions: Centre-back, Left-back, Defensive-midfield.

At 27 years of age, the Irish international brings a wealth of experience to the fold and although he can be rash at times, for £5m, Newcastle have gotten themselves a very good deal.

Clark is another player who Benitez has praised for his versatility – he has no problem slotting in at left-back and possesses great power and athleticism which allows him to act as an anchorman in front of the back four.

He won’t be one of United’s first-choice central defenders, but there is no doubt in my mind that he will make upwards of 20 appearances in a black-and-white shirt this season.

Jesus Gamez

Possible positions: Right-back, Centre-back, Left-back.

The acquisition of Gamez came as a surprise to many due to his age (31) and Newcastle’s recent transfer policy.

Signing on a two-year deal, the former Atletico Madrid defender gives Benitez a variety of options for the way he wants to structure his back four.

The Magpies’ boss shared his pleasure at the deal by saying: “He is experienced, I know he has great character and, importantly, he is an excellent professional. I am sure he will give balance to the team.”

His willingness to work hard and play anywhere across the defensive line didn’t go unnoticed by Diego Simeone or Rafa Benitez, two world-class managers.

There are more players at Newcastle who possess an element of versatility to their game.

Jack Colback, Paul Dummett, Chancel Mbemba, Henri Saivet, Ayoze Perez and Dwight Gayle can all comfortably play outside of their main positions, and as stated before, players like these are crucial in long seasons like the Championship.

Seeing some United players play in different positions will undoubtedly be a constant theme this season, and once Rafa trusts a player to do so, he will see it not as a risk, but as a benefit.