3 Head-To-Head Battles That Will Decide Swansea Vs Newcastle United

1. Wingers - Andre Ayew (Swans) Vs Gabriel Obertan (NUFC)

This comparison may have seemed ludicrous even a week ago but the likelihood is that Andre Ayew and Gabriel Obertan will both start as one of the three attacking-midfielders behind the lone striker in Swansea and Newcastle's respective 4-2-3-1 formations. Both started for their sides during the Premier League's opening weekend, with Ayew impressing by scoring on debut, while Obertan provided a magnificent half-volleyed cross for Georginio Wijnaldum's goal. Ayew, for so long a rumoured target of the Magpies, arrived in south Wales on a free transfer from Marseille this summer after netting 10 goals and assisting three times in 28 appearances (27 as a starter, one as a substitute) for the Ligue 1 side last season. Obertan, meanwhile, struggled to feature regularly for Newcastle in 2014-15 due to a lack of consistency in his performances and injury, meaning he made just 13 appearances (eight as a starter, five as a substitute) and scored just once against Leicester City, as well as providing a solitary assist.

In terms of the attacking sides of their respective games last season, Ayew led the way in terms of dribbles per game (1.4 to 1), while Obertan made more key passes per match (1.1 to 0.8), a statistic that may surprise some given that the Newcastle winger is known for his pace and running ability. Defensively, Ayew contributed far more for Marseille than Obertan for Newcastle, with the Ghanaian making 2.5 tackles per games compared to the Frenchman's 0.8. However, Obertan performed his defensive duties admirably against Southampton last weekend, showing that he can fulfil such a role. Discipline-wise, Obertan was squeaky clean last season and did not pick up a single card, while Ayew was booked on six occasions and sent off once. Verdict: Andre Ayew First of all because he is bound to score against a side who he was linked with for such a long period of time, but also because he is simply a class above. Obertan was impressive defensively and offensively last week but he is far too inconsistent for the Magpies. Ayew is a reliable performer having bagged 10 league goals last term for Marseille and he is in a settled Swansea side, so he will be the difference maker come Saturday. For all the latest NUFC News, Views and Transfers make sure to follow WhatCulture.com/NUFC on Twitter and Facebook.