Ryan Fraser has been struggling in a Newcastle United shirt, but has shown brilliant form for Scotland during the international break.
The winger was called up to Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad for the Nations League, and featured off the bench in both games. And in each game he made an impression.
The 28-year-old provided two assists in a 3-0 win over Ukraine last week, with two of his corners being directed in by Lyndon Dykes.
Fraser then came on as a substitute again against the Republic of Ireland, and once again made a huge difference. His pace gave the Irish defence countless problems, as Scotland went on to win 2-1 at Hampden Park.
In the words of Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, the Republic of Ireland ‘couldn’t handle‘ the former Bournemouth man.
It’s great to see Fraser playing so well for his country, and hopefully it inspires an upturn of fortunes in black and white.
Newcastle will be encouraged by Ryan Fraser’s form
While Fraser has played well for his country, the same can’t be said for his recent performances for Newcastle.
The 2020 signing has started the Magpies’ last three games, and really struggled on the left flank. Liverpool is a difficult game to judge him on, but he had little to no impact against Crystal Palace or Bournemouth.
It highlighted the need for Newcastle to sign a winger, with Miguel Almiron struggling on the opposite flank.
However, perhaps the last two games can serve as a confident boost for Fraser. We’ve seen how dangerous he can be when he’s confident. His form in the early parts of the year was fantastic.
Howe needs to get that Fraser back and firing. With Allan Saint-Maximin likely to miss out, Fraser will surely get another chance away to Fulham on Saturday.
If he can play like he did for Scotland then he could guarantee his future in the Newcastle starting XI. Hopefully his international form can provide the catalyst for an exciting Premier League campaign.
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