10 Things Newcastle Fans Need To Know About Florian Thauvin

By Matt Smith /

8. He Isn't The Same As Remy Cabella (More Like Hatem Ben Arfa)

Thauvin has a much stronger physical presence than Remy Cabella and is much more of a modern-day attacking midfielder. He isn't afraid of a challenge and will run at defenders with confidence. His power is what sets him aside from Newcastle's current #20 and his contribution will be more well-rounded. The 22-year-old has similarities with former Magpies winger Hatem Ben Arfa, who recently signed for Nice after being exiled from Newcastle's side during Alan Pardew's reign on Tyneside. Thauvin is gifted with blistering pace, has a very good first touch and dribbling skills, making him a challenging opponent to most defenders in Ligue 1, while his vision and passing from the midfield are precious to his team.