Newcastle’s draw with West Brom was a game that lacked quality.
The Magpies didn’t really try to win it, while the Baggies were unable to put away one of their chances.
Ally McCoist perfectly summed up how poor the game was. When asked when it will likely feature on Match of the Day on Sunday night, the commentator replied ‘Tuesday’.
All over the pitch, nothing really screamed ‘top flight of English football’. Except for West Brom’s Okay Yokuslu.
The 26-year-old was named the man of the match, and seemed like the only individual trying to force a game of football to break out.
Yokuslu joined West Brom on loan in January from Celta Vigo, and already looks like an excellent addition.
While it seems unlikely that the Baggies will avoid relegation, Yokuslu has proven that he has what it takes to be successful in the Premier League.
And if Newcastle United are lucky enough to avoid the drop, they should consider a summer move for him.
Yokuslu shines against Newcastle
Time and time again, Newcastle’s counter attacks were stopped by Yoksulu.
While we were often ponderous in possession, the midfielder was able to get back and retrieve the ball.
Yokuslu won five tackles, 12 duels and completed 10 ball recoveries. He even created a chance, something Newcastle really struggled to do – particularly in the second half.
As far as defensive midfield performances go, you couldn’t really ask for much more from Yokuslu. It was like watching Cheick Tiote at times.
Newcastle could do with this kind of presence in front of the defence – someone who is reliable and can break up play.
While Isaac Hayden usually operates in this role, he’s got other qualities. He can get up and down the pitch with his energy, something he doesn’t really get to do if he’s playing as a defensive midfielder.
If Newcastle survive, and that’s a big if right now, then they must consider a summer move for Yokuslu.
According to Spanish outlet AS, Celta Vigo plan to sell the Turkey international this summer. They expect him to impress and earn a permanent move away from the La Liga side.
He certainly is impressing, and Sunday’s performance will hopefully put him on Newcastle’s radar.
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