5 Heroes (And 5 Villains) From Club Atlas 2-1 Newcastle

The Heroes...

5. Ian Cathro

Newcastle may have succumbed to a defeat at the hands of Club Atlas but their new style of play has been evident in both the victory at Gateshead and the loss against the Mexican side. Although Steve McClaren and all of his backroom staff deserve some credit for this ambitious and exciting new philosophy, there is one coach in particular who should draw the most plaudits - namely Ian Cathro. Described by McClaren as being a "very good coach with great potential" this week, Cathro values technical play and a passing game above all else - and the Magpies are certainly attempting to implement this style, as well as a high press in defence. The full-backs are bombing forward, allowing the centre-backs to split and receive possession, while the goalkeepers are actively looking to distribute it short and not just hoof it forward. Obviously there is still a long way to go before this style will pay the desired dividends, but the fact its implementation is in its embryonic stages is exciting enough. The high press and defensive side of it in particular needs a lot of work still, and the technical passing will improve once better players arrive at the club, but the ideas behind the new style are certainly positive ones.