New statistics from the Premier League have suggested that DeAndre Yedlin is becoming one of the most dangerous wing-backs in the competition.
The figures may come as a surprise to Newcastle fans, as although ever present on the flank, Yedlin has hardly broke new ground in 2019.
The American gave a good showing in the Toon’s 3-0 win over Cardiff this weekend, providing three crosses.
But Yedlin didn’t contribute to any of the goals, and remains on one assist for the season.
The new stats however suggest that his assists tally could well improve if he continues his current form.
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This can only be good news for Newcastle as they begin to approach a less daunting February schedule.
What do the stats say?
According to premierleague.com, prior to Saturday’s game against Cardiff, Yedlin had created six chances in his last four matches.
This might not seem incredibly impressive, but it is when you consider who Newcastle played.
Those four games featured defeats to Liverpool, Man United and Chelsea, plus a draw with Watford.
If Yedlin is making things happen against three of the best teams in the country, he can potentially do more telling damage in the next few months.
The stats get even more impressive when you compare them to other wing-backs in the league.
The same data revealed that Yedlin’s six chances in four matches was only bettered by two other defenders.
Crystal Palace’s Patrick Van Aanholt and Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold both created seven apiece.
Yedlin is not too far behind, but Newcastle need him to keep up the tempo for the next two games.
Yedlin must replicate Man City performance
Newcastle face a tough home fixture against Man City next Tuesday and will be looking for Yedlin to repeat his form from their previous meeting.
The American scored only his second Newcastle goal against City earlier this season in an eventual 2-1 defeat.
Of course, no one would expect the defender to repeat that feat, but he must continue to provide an escape on the right flank.
Although being played at St James’ Park, Newcastle will be playing very conservatively.
With things so tight at the bottom of the table, the Toon need to keep their goal difference up.
But Yedlin showed in the earlier fixture that his pace can catch the defending champions on the break.
Anything can happen, and the reality is that Newcastle desperately need another good result from the match.
