Two Newcastle United players impressed on the international stage on Monday evening.
Sandro Tonali was one of 12 Newcastle players called up for international duty this week and he was given a start for Italy’s 4-1 win over Israel in the Nations League on Monday evening.
Tonali put on a “madman” display against Belgium earlier this week and he retained his spot in the side against Israel, where he played a full 90 minutes.
The Italian media raved about Tonali’s performance after he helped Italy dominate possession and break down Israel’s backline.
Tonali has deservedly made headlines for his superb performance on the international stage, but Newcastle teammate Emil Krafth also deserves credit after an impressive display for Sweden.
Emil Krafth shines for Sweden vs Estonia
Krafth was also in action in the Nations League and starred in Sweden’s 3-0 win over Estonia on Monday.
The 30-year-old started in a right wing-back spot for Jon Dahl Tomasson’s side and looked more than comfortable in an advanced position.
Krafth’s versatility has always been one of his best attributes and it came in handy against Estonia when he was moved to a centre-back role after 26 minutes when Alex Douglas was replaced.
The Newcastle defender settled quickly after the position change and a quick glimpse at his final stats proves he put on a brilliant display.
Krafth played the full match and ended with 101 touches and 76 completed passes – with 88 percent passing accuracy.
His defensive numbers were also outstanding with Krafth winning 86 percent of his ground and aerial duels, all without being dribbled past once.
He completed three tackles, three interceptions and made two clearances and only lost possession 11 times. An outstanding performance from the Newcastle veteran.
Eddie Howe on Emil Krafth’s versatility
Krafth may not always be a regular starter at Newcastle, but his versatility across the back line makes him an incredibly valuable asset to Eddie Howe.
Howe suggested Krafth could make a permanent position change after the Newcastle boss hailed him as “magnificent” in a centre-back role.
He has proven to be incredibly useful, especially during an injury crisis that has forced Newcastle to cope without centre-back duo Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman for months.
There is no doubt that Krafth is admired by the coaching staff at St James’ Park – Howe praised Krafth for never letting Newcastle down.
It has been a great international break for many Newcastle players so far, and it is fantastic to see Krafth add his name to that list.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
