Newcastle suffered their fourth defeat of the season against Arsenal, but at least Federico Fernandez came out with his head held high.
The Argentinian has had a strong start to his Newcastle career despite not tasting victory.
Fernandez arrived on deadline day from Championship side Swansea for £6million, and has made four appearances in black and white so far.
(Photo by Lindsey PARNABY / AFP)
For the first time in the league this season, Fernandez appeared in a back four, and looked comfortable alongside captain Jamaal Lascelles.
In the second half, the wheels fell off for Newcastle, and Fernandez was to blame for the opening goal after giving away the free kick that Granit Xhaka converted.
However, the foul was the only real low point of Fernandez’s performance. The summer signing looked calm while his teammates appeared to panic.
The 29-year-old even showed off his attacking talents, providing the assist for Ciaran Clark with a wicked cross.
(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Getty Images)
Permanent partner for Lascelles?
In the first half, Newcastle looked very comfortable defensively.
Lascelles and Fernandez appeared to already have a great understanding at the back, which will be important going forward.
With Florian Lejeune struck down by injury, it was unclear who should partner Lascelles at the back. However, it is very obvious now that the former Swansea captain is the man for the job.
That means we have two leaders at the back, which is essential for a side who will be doing a lot of defending this season.
(Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)