OPINION
The signing of defender Emil Krafth in the summer seemed a strange decision for Newcastle United to make.
At the time of the announcement, Steve Bruce had Javier Manquillo and DeAndre Yedlin available to him at St James’ Park, with Krafth now the third option at right-back.
There is no hiding the fact that Yedlin was injured, but with the American international now closing in on a return, Bruce could be set for a selection headache.
It was Manquillo who was given the nod for the Premier League opener against Arsenal, but the Spaniard was quickly dropped by Bruce, and it has been Swedish international, Krafth, who has cemented his spot in the side.
Former Magpies’ man Warren Barton has been impressed with the start the 25-year-old has been made at the beginning of the season, praising his ability to get forward as well as defend.
“He looks like a player who maybe needs to refine his game a little bit but there have been signs,” he told the Chronicle.
“He gives you everything, trying his hardest and sometimes I think that is all you can ask for. Is it enough? Maybe not but let’s support everyone and give him a chance because he does look like a player who wants to wear his heart on his sleeve.”
Barton did mention how Krafth’s all might not be enough, but if the Swede continues the way he has started Newcastle fans will be delighted with their summer signing.
The 25-year-old has averaged a single tackle per game so far but has made four clearances per game this season according to WhoScored – an impressive stat for when Newcastle have their backs against the wall.
On top of that, Krafth also averages 21 passes per game with an impressive success rate of 81%, as he has also found himself in a position to shoot once every three outings [WhoScored].
Newcastle fans are surely delighted with the impact that Krafth has made this season, and if he continues in the same form, he will be a fan favourite fairly quickly.
