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Roberts display will leave Atsu and Kenedy sweating

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Image for Roberts display will leave Atsu and Kenedy sweating

OPINION

Newcastle United will no doubt be full of confidence after progressing to the next round of the FA Cup with a 4-2 win over Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night.

Many eyebrows were certainly raised when Rafa Benitez opted to include rarely-seen winger Cal Roberts in the starting XI, but it was clear to see that he proved many of the doubters wrong with his assured display.

The 21-year-old, earning just his second senior appearance for the club, looked full of energy and never seemed afraid to have a try, a trait that somewhat lacks in some members of the Newcastle team.

He also netted his first senior goal for the Magpies in what was an overall confident performance from the young ace.

However, two players who will definitely be sweating after his outing will be Kenedy and Christian Atsu, who have not enjoyed the greatest of successes this season.

Both players have not been a favourite of the supporters this term due to some particularly woeful displays, but Roberts’ performance will have them worried.

The youngster deserves another chance to prove himself to Benitez, this time in a Premier League clash – so what better oppportunity to do that than against Cardiff City this weekend.

Yes, Kenedy could be available for Saturday – Atsu is currently injured – but that does not automatically mean he will return to the starting-line at the expense of someone who played well on Tuesday.

Roberts did not do anything that warrants him being dropped, so Benitez must be bold and start him at St James’ Park in a few days’ time.

Premier League experience is just what he needs to become a better player in the future – even if it does mean that some of his teammates will be fearing for their first team future.

Either way, Kenedy and Atsu will be sweating profusely after Roberts turned heads on Tuesday – as their spots on the left hand side are seriously under threat.

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