Newcastle United insiders vindicated as 32-touch star proves people behind the scenes right

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Jacob Ramsey is starting to build a platform at Newcastle United. 

While Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw are currently the standout additions to the Newcastle United squad following a dramatic summer transfer window, Ramsey is starting to make progress.  

He suffered an ankle injury on his first start against Leeds in August and was subsequently ruled out of action for Newcastle until October. 

The former Aston Villa midfielder, however, is now back in action. He looked bright in a cameo down at Brighton on Saturday and did so again when starting ahead of Joelinton against Benfica on Tuesday night.  

Those behind the scenes are excited about the 24-year-old and it’s increasingly easy to see why.

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Jacob Ramsey proving Newcastle United insiders right

Newcastle were privately excited about signing Ramsey, amid an internal belief that he can force his way into the England squad on a regular basis. 

He’ll need to perform well for Newcastle to do that and the early signs are promising. 

Ramsey was impressive against Benfica. Joelinton was criticised for his performance against Brighton and was duly rested in favour of his new teammate on Tuesday night. 

As per FotMob data, Ramsey created one chance while making four defensive contributions. He had 32 touches and was only denied a clear shot on goal by some last-ditch defending following a free-flowing move. 

With Joelinton not particularly convincing right now, Ramsey is looking like an inspired addition.

Joelinton under pressure after Jacob Ramsey performance for Newcastle United

The season is long and arduous, so Joelinton will no doubt be called upon in the immediate future.

Still, his starting berth no longer looks quite as assured. Ramsey brings an energy to the midfield that has been lacking at times this season.

After Newcastle’s 3-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League, Eddie Howe said: “We’re dealing with Sandro [Tonali], Joelinton and Bruno [Guimaraes].  

“To knock one of them out the team is very, very difficult. You saw JJ [Jacob Ramsey] come into the team and did very well today. Lewie [Miley] shows the strength we have in midfield. Joe Willock did well in a very brief cameo.

“We’ve got good players in those positions and they’re all going to push each other, hopefully, for better performances.”  

The strength of Newcastle’s midfield was a major reason for last season’s success. Nothing lasts forever, however, and Ramsey is starting to offer a promising glimpse of the future.