OPINION
Given the state of things at St. James’ Park at the moment, the best distraction that Newcastle United fans might get from the ongoing saga of Mike Ashley’s ownership this season is guiding the Magpies to success in the virtual world of FIFA 20. Things may be pretty dire on Tyneside, but there is always a certain amount of solace to be taken from bringing in Kylian Mbappe on a pre-contract agreement and subsequently lifting the Champions League, even if it is just a fantasy. As such, there are whole legions of football fans who are incredibly keen to find out how well-rated their real life are heroes will be within the confines of the video game. United supporters could be in for a bit of disappointment this season, however. Martin Dubravka and Miguel Almiron are the Toon Army’s best players with an in game rating of 80 each, while Fabian Schar has been given a total of 79. Beyond that though, things look pretty dour, and as reported by the Shields Gazette, local hero Sean Longstaff starts out with just 72. You have to say that seems harsh. He may have only played nine times in the Premier League last season, but he still managed a pass completion rate of 80.9%, as well as being dispossessed just 0.7 times per game, as per Whoscored. His potential will no doubt be through the roof, but that initial rating seems very harsh nonetheless.
Nothing But Newcastle have gathered some of the best tweets below:
