Steve Sidwell amazed by ‘excellent’ Newcastle player who is ‘quickly becoming a legend’
Steve Sidwell has made a big Newcastle claim during the Toon’s Champions League clash with Union Saint-Gilloise.
Newcastle were looking to respond from their late 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in the Premier League, which left them with just two wins in all competitions this season.
Eddie Howe’s side travelled to Belgium for matchday two of the Champions League after Barcelona defeated Newcastle 2-0 in the first round of the league phase.
Newcastle were without Tino Livramento who went off injured against Arsenal, with Howe replacing the full-back with Kieran Trippier, whilst Anthony Elanga came in for Jacob Murphy.
Sandro Tonali turning into Newcastle legend
Newcastle got off to the perfect start against Union SG when Sandro Tonali’s low shot from the edge of the box deflected past the goalkeeper.
That was Tonali’s first goal of the season, and comes after registering the assist for Nick Woltemade’s header against Arsenal.
Speaking on TNT Sports, [1 October], former Premier League midfielder Steve Sidwell believes Tonali is becoming a legend at the club.
“In this Newcastle side, he’s quickly becoming a legend in black and white, the fans absolutely love him,” Sidwell said.
“He can pick a pass, his array of passes is long and short, you can see here his link up play.
“He covers so much ground, does the hard yards as well, and just getting on the second ball and just reding the game, he’s excellent.
“I would love to have played alongside him. It would have made me look a better player, that’s for sure.”
Newcastle doubled their lead from the spot later in the first half, with Anthony Gordon converting the penalty.
Newcastle face Tonali concern despite legend claim
Tonali only has two years left on his Newcastle contract, and the Toon will be eager to tie the Italian down to a new deal.
Juventus were interested in Tonali during the summer transfer window, and more club’s are likely to explore a move for the 25-year-old the longer he holds off signing a new deal.
| Minutes Played | 516 |
| Touches | 385 |
| Successful Passes | 243 |
| Chances Created | 10 |
| Recoveries | 21 |
Newcastle know that qualifying for the Champions League each season will help them keep their biggest stars.
The Toon’s early season form means they are five points adrift of the Champions League places currently in the Premier League table.