Newcastle United have emerged like a phoenix from the flames, writhing free from the ashes of past controversies to continue their ascent of the Premier League table. Sunday’s victory against struggling Aston Villa sees the Magpies cautiously eyeing a place in next seasons Champions League.
Just 12 months ago, the Toon Army were in disarray over the sale of local talisman Andy Carroll to Liverpool, in a record breaking deadline day deal. Manager Alan Pardew was struggling to win over the ever-expectant Geordie nation and Carroll’s departure was seen as yet another black spot on the reign of owner Mike Ashley.
Since then Newcastle have enjoyed somewhat of a revolution, which has been largely credited to the arrival of Demba Ba. Despite scoring 7 goals in 12 appearances he couldn’t prevent West Ham from the drop and after triggering his release clause, Pardew swooped to sign the Senegalese striker on a free transfer.
His raw pace, unyielding strength and aerial threat have all contributed to his impressive performances as a lone target man. He currently sits third in the goal-scoring charts with a remarkable 16 goals in just 20 appearances and his early return from a disappointing African Cup of Nations is a timely boost for Pardew’s injury ravaged squad.
However, it’s not just the feats of Demba Ba that has tongues wagging on Tyneside. Pardew’s transfer activity has meant a recent influx of French players with the technically gifted Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa alongside former Manchester United misfit Gabriel Obertan helping transform Newcastle’s previously one-dimensional, direct style of play.
Cabaye in particular seems to have been plucked from the mould of exceptional petit playmakers. His composure on the ball and broad range of passes often mirrors the exploits of Luka Modric or David Silva. The signing of Obertan has been an inspired piece of business from Pardew, somehow transforming the sulky winger into a player who dictates Newcastle’s newfound style of dynamic, fluid football.
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Newcastle have also excelled at the back this season with the outstanding performances of goalkeeper Tim Krul and midfielder Cheick Tiote catching the eye of many rival managers. Krul has established himself as one of the league’s finest shot stoppers and seems to have erased his tendency to flap wildly at every cross into the box.
Tiote on the other hand continues to be the unsung hero. He’s often unfairly labelled as an enforcer, simply in the side to win the ball and break up play. Whilst this maybe his best asset, he also drives the team forward with surging runs and intricate through balls from deep inside his own half.
Newcastle’s recent run of good form has not been without its difficulties. Steven Taylor has been sidelined for the remainder of the season leaving a heavy burden on Fabio Coloccini’s shoulders. There has also been off the field controversy as well, the decision to rename the stadium ‘Sports Direct Arena’ after one of Mike Ashley’s commercial ventures has sparked an angry reaction from fans.
A lot of speculation has surrounded Newcastle’s ability to maintain their push for a top 6 finish. This will surely revolve around whether they can keep compatriots Demba Ba and new signing Papiss Cisse off the physio’s table. Cisse arrives with a strong reputation from his time in Germany and capped his debut with a goal former Newcastle greats Alan Shearer and Jackie Milburn would have been proud of.
With Sunderland currently undergoing a Martin O’Neill inspired revival and a new number nine on the scene, there is certainly reason for good cheer in the North East during this bitter winter period.
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