Newcastle United secured their second win in a week this afternoon, beating Nottingham Forest 2-0 in what was a phenomenal showing at St James’ Park.
The Magpies went into half-time goalless with no side really grabbing the same by the scruff of the neck, resulting in a half of minimal clear-cut chances for either side.
However, the second half was a different story, with Eddie Howe’s side putting the Reds to the sword and restricting them to limited opportunities in the second 45.
Goals from Bruno Guimaraes and Nick Woltemade secured the win on Tyneside, inflicting yet more pain on Ange Postecoglou, who is now seven games without a win after taking charge at the City Ground.
Numerous players managed to star throughout the latest Premier League triumph, but there’s no denying that two players managed to capture the headlines with their displays.
Guimaraes & Woltemade’s displays against Forest
As previously mentioned, Brazilian midfielder Guimaraes found himself on the scoresheet for the second time in the Premier League this campaign after previously netting against Liverpool.
The 27-year-old also won a penalty for the Magpies, but his underlying stats further highlight how impressive he was during the victory at St James’ this afternoon.
He won 10 duels and made three tackles – with both tallies the most of any player on the pitch – showcasing how much he ran the middle of the park against Forest.
As for Woltemade, the German became only the third player in Magpies history to score in each of his first three home games for the club, following in the footsteps of Alan Shearer and Les Ferdinand.
The German also completed 100% of the passes he attempted, along with a chance created for his teammate – in what was a superb all-round showing from the big-money addition.
His seamless start to life in England has allowed the fanbase to forget about the departure of Alexander Isak, which is no mean feat given his record on Tyneside.
However, despite the showing from the aforementioned duo, one other Magpies talent thrived against the Reds and cemented his place in Howe’s side.
The Newcastle star who’s as crucial as Guimaraes & Woltemade
In the transfer market over recent times, Newcastle have conducted superb business, which has no doubt contributed to their recent success on the field.
Malick Thiaw was one of the big-money additions made by the board this summer, with the German centre-back already making an immediate impact in the North East.
His showing against the Reds further demonstrates his impressive ability, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, whilst completing 91% of the passes he attempted.
However, Sandro Tonali was another talent who produced an afternoon to remember today, arguably being one of the club’s most important players at present.
Whilst he missed the majority of his first season through suspension, he’s been a key part of the squad since his return – with his showing against the Reds one of his best to date.
During his 90-minute display, the Italian completed 59 passes at an 88% percent completion rate, often looking to complete a pass during his 90-touch performance.
Minutes played
90
Touches
90
Passes completed
59
Pass percentage
88%
Chances created
2
Passes into final third
10
Recoveries made
6
Tackles won
2
He also created two chances in the process, with ten of his passes going into the final third, further showcasing his ability to thrive when in possession of the ball.
However, out of it, Tonali was just as impressive, subsequently making six recoveries and two tackles – helping keep yet another clean sheet for the side.
He also won five ground duels and completed 100% of the dribbles he attempted, topping off his sensational all-round showing against Postecoglou’s men on Tyneside.
After such a showing, it’s safe to say the midfielder is rapidly becoming one of Howe’s most influential players and is undoubtedly set to play a huge role in any future success at the club.
Whilst Guimaraes and Woltemade will certainly get the majority of the plaudits, a huge heap of praise needs to be directed Tonali’s way, with the Italian showing why the club forked out huge funds for his signature.