OPINION
Phil Thompson ahead of Newcastle United taking on Huddersfield Town on Saturday shared his views on how defender Federico Fernandez had settled into life at St James Park.
The Sky Sports pundit confessed that he thought the centre-back would struggle to cope with the pressure Magpies supporters put on their players upon hearing that he had joined from Swansea City but went on to be very complimentary of the player.
Thompson even added that the Magpies would miss Fernandez for the clash with the Terriers, as he was set to be absence for it due to injury, and that shows how important the player has made himself.
“He’s always there, getting the tackle, his combination with Lascelles has been a bonus,” said Thompson on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday (14:38, December 15).
“There always gonna miss him, they know where they sit in the realms of the Premier League and it’s going to be a tough at times.
“But these two fellas at least you can rely upon them, I think he has been absolutely terrific as he’s one of them I thought when they signed him, my goodness he isn’t going to be standing up with 50-55,000 people putting pressure on him all the time but he has accepted responsibility, I think he has been a very good signing for him.”
Thompson’s verdict isn’t a surprise as after the Magpies chose to raid Swansea, who were relegated last season, it was hard to be excited about welcoming a defender who was part of a team that slumped out of the Premier League.
The 29-year-old did show glimpses about his ability for the Swans last season but not so much that you were thrilled about him joining the Magpies, and Thompson’s original view on the centre-back was probably reflected in a lot of fans.
Yet just as Thompson alluded to the fact Fernandez has risen to the challenge of playing for a club like Newcastle United and has been a reliable presence at the back.
Given that the Magpies’ form has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride this season, for a player to consistently deliver the goods like Fernandez has been able to in his 14 outings, has seen him become vital to Rafa Benitez.
The Spanish manager knows that he can count on the 29-year-old to stay strong at the back which allows him to be confident when urging his team to push forward for a result.
Thompson’s verdict therefore proves how Fernandez has defied expectations this season as there were clear doubts to be had about his recruitment to become a name that you would love to see on the teamsheet every week.
