da luck： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
da 888casino： Alan Shearer has named three Newcastle players in his Premier League Team of the Week for the latest round of fixtures.
The Magpies were in inspired form as they twice came from a goal down to draw 2-2 with Manchester City last weekend.
What’s he said?
The Newcastle legend was full of praise for a number of Newcastle players after the Magpies halted City in their tracks and it was clear to see why.
There was a newfound concentration level instilled in Steve Bruce’s men as the hosts took a point from the game. Jetro Willems grabbed a goal in the first half after linking with Miguel Almiron before Jonjo Shelvey rifled the ball into the back of the net for a late equaliser.
Shelvey was one of the players to earn praise from Shearer, who said: “Caused plenty of problems for Man City and produced a stunning equaliser. He needs to have more of these performances.”
However, there was more praise for the defensive attitude of Newcastle. Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka was selected between the sticks and earned the following review from the pundit:
“Produced some very good saves, and one world-class stop from Raheem Sterling in particular, to help secure a point against the champions.”
The final member of Bruce’s side to get recognition from Shearer was Argentine defender Federico Fernandez. The former striker added: “Battled brilliantly throughout to ensure Man City never got more than one goal ahead.”
Newcastle finding their groove
After a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa, a game that followed three games without defeat, Newcastle finally look as though they’re starting to develop under Bruce.
They’re better off in terms of points at this stage of the season than they were under Rafa Benitez last term which is perhaps evidence of how under the radar the Magpies have gone.
The current side plays in a particularly negative way, mustering just 37.9% of the possession on average, but it’s proving effective in some games and they soaked up the pressure quite brilliantly against City.
What Shearer says about the three players is spot on, however. Shelvey is far too inconsistent but against City he was superb in midfield and his goal typified the qualities he has.
He registered his joint-best pass accuracy of the season, 83.3%, and also amassed three shots. The midfielder also performed four dribbles and made four interceptions in what was a brilliant all-round display.
Watch Sheffield United v Newcastle Live and Free with Amazon Prime
As for Fernandez, he made a colossal ten clearances and five interceptions to keep City at bay. Finally, Dubravka was inspired with the gloves on. He produced seven saves, collected the ball three times and also parried the danger on one occasion.
In other news, one Newcastle player is continuing to let his teammates down…