Newcastle United saw their Champions League hopes dented by Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday night.
After losing the home fixture last month too, Newcastle face a fight to make it out of the Champions League group stages now.
They will surely need maximum points from their two remaining games after Dortmund once again emerged from a tight game victorious.
Eddie Howe’s injury-depleted side did not create much in Germany. Joelinton could well have scored to level the tie in the second half but that was the only clear cut chance.
Indeed, it was not a vintage night for Howe’s team but TNT Sports commentator Glenn Hoddle picked out one player for particular praise.
Borussia Dortmund vs Newcastle: Glenn Hoddle names Newcastle’s best player
Speaking on commentary, Hoddle named Tino Livramento as Newcastle’s best player, even in defeat.
Starting on the right wing before dropping back to right-back in the second half, the £32m former Southampton defender impressed once more.
“He’s played well tonight, Livramento,” said the former England manager.
“From the first minute until now he’s been brilliant. I think he’s been their best player, he really has.”
Tino Livramento: How did Newcastle star play against Borussia Dortmund?
A look at the stats from WhoScored underlines just how well Livramento played.
After starring against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup as well as Manchester City in the previous round, the former Chelsea youngster took that form onto the grandest stage.
He was one of only four Newcastle players who mustered a shot on target and was one of only five to register a key pass. No one in Howe’s squad made more tackles (3) and he also ranked joint-highest with Joe Willock in blocks (1).
Though not a vintage night, it is becoming increasingly clear that Newcastle have a star on their hands.
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