Isaac Hayden’s incredible run in the Newcastle team could come to an end this weekend.
The midfielder came off in the second half against Arsenal, replaced by Ki Sung-Yueng.
Hayden went from zero to hero
It’s been an interesting season for the 24-year-old. It started with wanting to leave, but he didn’t get his wish. A red card against Cardiff came at the worst possible time for Hayden, and once January came round his calls to leave were even louder.
But once again he stayed at St James’ Park, and injuries meant that he had a big role to play. Alongside Sean Longstaff, the former Arsenal man helped guide Newcastle up the table and away from the relegation zone.
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His attitude and dedication to the club couldn’t be questioned, and Hayden actually became undroppable.
Since coming into the team on Boxing Day against Liverpool, the number 14 has been virtually ever-present. He’s started 15 of our last 17 games.
I questioned Hayden earlier in 2019, but he has proved me and many more wrong. He will certainly be a loss in the middle of the park.
As we prepare to take on Crystal Palace potentially without him, there is a huge opportunity for either Ki or Jonjo Shelvey this weekend.