Dan Burn: ‘Immense’ Newcastle signing has proved me wrong after ‘brilliant move’ – ex-manager
Alex McLeish has insisted Dan Burn could be a “really shrewd” signing for Newcastle United after completing a move from Brighton.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the “immense” 29-year-old had proved him wrong after questioning his pace in the Premier League.
Newcastle confirmed Burn’s capture late on Monday evening ahead of the 11pm transfer deadline.
The centre-back was Newcastle fifth and final addition in the January window.
McLeish admitted he has changed his opinion of Burn since watching the defender play for Fulham.
He insisted joining boyhood club Newcastle is a “brilliant move” for the 6ft 7in colossus.
“Big Dan Burn, I used to think he wasn’t the quickest but he’s proved me wrong,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“I saw him a few times at Fulham and I’ve got to say I’ve been really impressed by him in the last couple of years. He’s not so slow at all.
“He’s got a longer stride and he reads the game very well. Of course, he’s an immense threat at both ends of the pitch.
“I do think that’s a really shrewd signing. He’s living the dream. God almighty, that’s a brilliant move for him. It’s up to him now.”
Born in Blyth, Burn was part of Newcastle’s youth setup until the age of 11.
Since starting his professional career at Darlington, he has had spells at Fulham, Wigan Athletic and Brighton.
He played 85 times for the Seagulls before heading back to the north east and has 83 Premier League appearances under his belt.
In other news, pundit claims Newcastle United have signed their own Declan Rice.