This starter under pressure: Three things we learned from Newcastle United win over Stoke
Matt Ritchie is Newcastle’s most important player
If there was any doubt before this match who Newcastle’s most important player was, then Matt Ritchie’s performance put the argument to bed.
The fact that he sits behind just Manchester United’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan in the Premier League assists table speaks volumes, with the Scottish international having set up four of his side’s six goals this season.
His deliveries from set pieces caused havoc in the Stoke defence over and over, and once again he has delivered the ball onto Jamaal Lascelles’ head to score the match winner.
However he showed the same talent from open play as from dead ball scenarios, whipping in a superb cross which dissected the Potters’ back line and onto Christian Atsu’s foot for the opening goal.
Without his influence, the Magpies really would struggle to create as many opportunities as they do, and boss Benitez will be praying that the 28-year-old avoids both injury and suspension this season.
In other Newcastle United news, Football Insider gave one man a 4/10 in their player ratings for the clash against Mark Hughes’ side.
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