DeAndre Yedlin could face former Newcastle forward Papiss Cisse on Galatasaray debut
DeAndre Yedlin could face former Newcastle forward Papiss Cisse on Galatasaray debut
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images

DeAndre Yedlin could face former Newcastle forward Papiss Cisse on Galatasaray debut

DeAndre Yedlin could make his Galatasaray debut this weekend in the derby against Fenerbahce.

Not only could his debut come in one of world football’s most ferocious derbies, but he might come up against another ex-Magpie.

Former Newcastle forward Papiss Cisse could line up against Yedlin, having joined Fenerbahce in October of last year.

Photo by Serhat Cagdas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

The Senegalese striker has got four goals so far for his new club. However, he’ll be hoping that his tally increases with the arrival of Mesut Ozil last month.

Former Magpies set for derby clash

While the pressure of a derby is huge, Yedlin will no doubt be looking forward to seeing some familiar faces so soon after arriving in Turkey.

The right back left Newcastle on deadline day, signing an 18-month deal with the Istanbul giants.

Yedlin will be remembered fondly for his time at St James’ Park, particularly his years under Rafa Benitez. The American was a key player in the Championship, and also proved his worth in the Premier League.

While his influence waned during the past 18 months, Yedlin did have a mini renaissance late in his Toon career. It looked like he might actually stay on Tyneside.

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But instead he was let go, as he goes from a Premier League relegation battle to a Turkish title fight.

Yedlin’s new side Galatasaray are three points behind leaders Fenerbahce, who they face on Saturday.

While Yedlin and Cisse never crossed paths at Newcastle, it will be interesting to see which former Magpie is celebrating on Saturday night.

With a bit of luck, they’ll both be able to toast a victory for their former club no matter what happens in Istanbul.