Federico Fernandez put in a commanding display at centre-back against Bournemouth on Saturday as the Toon recorded their second win of the season.
The Argentinian was a dominating presence and made himself known to The Cherries forwards right from the starting whistle.
Jordan Ibe was played through on the right-hand side within minutes, but Fernandez made a darting run across his box to put in a phenomenal block.
It set the tone for his performance, as he made several key interceptions and sliding challenges to set Newcastle on the counter.
It was almost a perfect day for the defender, however things could have gone a lot differently had he conceded a penalty early on.
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There was suspicion he had kicked out at David Brooks in the 18-yard box, but referee Lee Probert waved away Bournemouth appeals.
It was a moment Newcastle fans were quick to forget though as his display over the full 90 minutes received plenty of plaudits.
He has cemented his place in the team over the last few games and is becoming a firm favourite on Tyneside.
At a fee believed to be less than £6 million pounds from Swansea, Fernandez is looking like one of the bargain buys of the season.
Fans on Fernandez versus Bournemouth
