Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has suggested Eddie Howe should keep both Dan Burn and Fabian Schar in his starting XI for Newcastle United’s next game with West Ham United.
The Magpies won again on Sunday, beating Aston Villa 1-0 at St. James’ Park.
It was a spirited display from Howe’s men. And Kieran Trippier struck the game’s only goal via a free-kick just before half-time.
One man really impressed against the Villans was Dan Burn.
The January signing was in for his debut, replacing captain Jamaal Lascelles who missed out through illness.
Burn put in a colossal display. And he drew huge praise from Neville who said towards the end of the game that he had been the best Newcastle player by a mile.
He also named him his man-of-the-match.
Neville continued speaking highly of Burn. He also put in a good word about his partner for the day Fabian Schar.
The former Manchester United man reckons the pair ought to feel disappointed if either was dropped for the game with West Ham.
He said on the Gary Neville podcast (4:57): “What I would say is that if I’m the two centre-backs who played in that game today I’d be disappointed if wasn’t playing in the next game. Or the one after that if they continue to play like that. I thought they were really good today.”
Selection headache inbound for Eddie Howe as Burn and Schar star for Newcastle
As Neville says, Burn and Schar were great against Villa.
Neither warrant dropping to the bench for the game against West Ham.
But club captain Lascelles was also fantastic against Leeds and especially Everton, before unfortunately struggling with illness.
What is for certain though is that it is a healthy situation.
Having three central defenders in good form is most welcome, and the increased level of competition can only serve Newcastle well in the coming weeks.
It’s going to be fascinating to read that next teamsheet come 11.30am on Saturday.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
