A frustrating afternoon for Georginio Wijnaldum who struggled to make an impact on the game. The midfielder was constantly over-looked by Vurnon Anita and Jack Colback and it could be time to start using the former PSV Eindhoven man instead of one of the aforementioned players. His ball control and dribbling ability is very impressive and Steve McClaren needs to work out how to utilise the player more.
11. Aleksandar Mitrovic - 2
The hot-headed striker started the game well. Aleksandar Mitrovic challenged Laurent Koscielny and Gabriel for every single header and looked like he was going to give the unexperienced pairing a ninety minute headache. Unfortunately in the 16th minute the former Anderlecht striker had other ideas and carelessly stamped down on Francis Coquelin's ankle, instantly providing the two aforementioned centre backs with a calming paracetamol. The referee had no choice but to send Mitrovic straight off and the striker will miss the next three games.
NCTJ-accredited football writer with an MA in Sports Journalism. What Culture football editor. Write for the official Newcastle United programme. Former video reporter at North News. Featured and published in the Sunderland Echo, Shields Gazette, Mail Online, The Mirror, The Sun and others.
