He may have started the game on the bench, but Isaac Hayden still got Newcastle fans talking with his performance.
The 23-year-old was brought on early in the second half, replacing the injured Jamaal Lascelles after a comical cameo. The question remains, why didn’t Hayden just come on in the first place? But alas, that didn’t happen.
Hayden’s arrival saw Fabian Schar pushed back into defence, having started the game in midfield. Schar actually did okay in his new role, which surprised a lot of fans before kick off.
He certainly did better than Hayden. As soon as he arrived on the pitch, he didn’t look interested. There was no intensity, no getting the ball forward, no drive. This was a stark contrast to Sean Longstaff, who continued going at full pelt until the referee blew for full time after 120 minutes of action.
Once again, fans were not impressed with the former Arsenal midfielder.
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Newcastle fans not impressed by Hayden
In just two appearances, Longstaff has endeared himself to the Magpies faithful, while Hayden has continued to hinder his reputation. While he may say he is committed to playing for the club while he’s still here, his performance speaks for itself.
Hopefully Mo Diame is passed fit to play against Cardiff on Saturday and he can partner Longstaff. In this relegation battle, Newcastle can’t afford to be carrying anyone. Sadly, that’s exactly what we’re doing with Hayden whenever he plays now.
