Newcastle fans buzzing as Federico Fernandez scoops TOTW place

Newcastle supporters haven’t had a huge amount to shout about this season but a 2-2 draw with Manchester City last Saturday was definitely an added plus point of a so-far underwhelming Steve Bruce era.

The former Aston Villa boss has generated a rather interesting style of football which relies on the Magpies soaking up the pressure and then hitting the opposition on the counter.

Bruce’s side average just 37.9% of the ball which is rather alarming. However, in some cases, it’s paid dividends and the draw with City was fine evidence of that.

One of the stand out performers from that game was defender Federico Fernandez who kept the Citizens at bay with composure and solidity. In fact, he was so solid that Toon hero Alan Shearer named him in his Premier League Team of the Week.

It was enough to generate a reaction from the St James’ Park faithful who were buzzing that the side had a place for the Argentine. Some of the responses on Twitter centred around their general love for the player as they congratulated the man who signed from Swansea in the summer of 2018

But there was more analysis from further individuals who took time to ponder Bruce’s team selection. The 30-year-old hasn’t always been a favourite under the experienced boss and after the match with City, he’s started just five times in the Premier League this season.

However, after his most recent display, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he now picked up a regular slot in the team. Fabian Schar returned to the bench on Saturday but the team’s performance might be enough to keep him among the substitutes. One fan couldn’t understand why Bruce hadn’t been picking him until recently.

The general qualities of the Argentine were also hailed as numerous superlatives were thrown in Fernandez’s direction. One supporter even called him a colossus for his efforts against Pep Guardiola’s men. Another made reference to a run forward he made. It’s easy to see why those verdicts were given too.

Via WhoScored, Fernandez made five interceptions, completed two tackles and also produced a mighty ten clearances. With that in mind, his selection in Shearer’s TOTW seems fully vindicated.

Meanwhile, check out the photo that Newcastle will need to see a lot more of in 2019/20.