Javier Manquillo should replace Emil Krafth when Newcastle face Brighton – opinion

Add as preferred source on Google

Javier Manquillo has missed Newcastle’s last two Premier League games, but it is time for him to return to the starting XI.

The Spaniard hasn’t featured since the 1-0 win over Aston Villa. He played at left-back that day, covering for Matt Targett who couldn’t face his parent club. Manquillo went off injured shortly before half time, and was eventually joined in the physio’s room by Kieran Trippier.

Luckily Manquillo’s injury isn’t as bad, and he made the bench against Brentford but didn’t come on.

The game against Brighton should be the return of the full-back to the starting XI.

Krafth has filled in for Manquillo at right-back, but the Spaniard should get the nod over him

Emil Krafth has done decently filling in for the 27-year-old. He held his own against Villa and didn’t do much wrong. However, against West Ham, he looked vulnerable at times but didn’t make any outright blunders.

The Brentford fixture was a solid performance from Krafth – he didn’t play badly at all. But Manquillo is more effective in that position for Newcastle.

Some fans, myself included, don’t have that worry of seeing Manquillo’s name on the team sheet. Whereas with Krafth, he’s prone to an error at the back.

Going forwards, the man signed by Rafa Benitez can offer more than the Swede. Manquillo can drive forward and swing in some good crosses. When everyone is fit Trippier and Targett are your go-to full-backs, but Manquillo is a strong backup.

Until Trippier is back fit, Manquillo should be the Magpies’ right-back. When it comes to performances on the pitch, the defender very rarely lets you down. Even when Newcastle have played poorly, he’s never been one of the worst performers on the pitch in my eyes.

You’re guaranteed sixes and sevens out of 10 performances at least with him – the same can’t be said for Krafth. Whilst he might not have the vast experience of high-pressure games like Trippier, Manquillo is more than capable of delivering.

The clash with Brighton is a big chance for Newcastle to further extend the gap between themselves and the bottom three. They’ll be full of confidence heading into the game and see it as a chance to grab another win.