The Newcastle player who was “class” – and one who is knocking on the England door

Newcastle United delivered a statement performance in their emphatic 4-1 victory over Manchester United, showcasing both individual brilliance and collective dominance. The Magpies’ fluid attacking play and defensive solidity left Erik ten Hag’s side chasing shadows for much of the contest at St James’ Park.

Newcastle’s Defensive Foundation
Nick Pope set the tone early with a crucial save to deny Joshua Zirkzee, though his second half proved relatively untroubled as Newcastle took control.

The defensive unit functioned superbly as a cohesive force, with Fabian Schar and Dan Burn forming an impenetrable barrier that restricted Manchester United to just 12 touches in Newcastle’s box.

Burn’s commanding display in particular caught the eye of watching England manager Thomas Tuchel.

Full-backs Kieran Trippier and Tino Livramento provided relentless width and energy. Livramento’s marauding run down the left flank led to Newcastle’s crucial second goal, while Trippier continued his productive partnership with Jacob Murphy on the opposite side.

Midfield Maestros
The game’s standout performer Sandro Tonali delivered a masterclass in midfield play. The Italian international opened the scoring with a composed finish and made a potentially game-saving tackle early in the second half to halt a dangerous Manchester United counter.

Alongside him, Bruno Guimarães outshone his namesake in red, capping his all-action display with a well-taken goal.

Joelinton’s physical dominance in midfield proved too much for United’s midfield to handle, with the Brazilian brushing off challenges with ease throughout the contest.

Attacking Prowess
Newcastle’s forward line combined creativity with ruthless efficiency. Jacob Murphy, arguably the surprise package of Newcastle’s season, notched another assist to take his Premier League tally to ten for the campaign.

Alexander Isak’s exquisite assist for Tonali’s opener highlighted his growing influence as a complete forward.

But the day belonged to Harvey Barnes, whose clinical brace in front of England’s manager made a compelling case for Euro 2024 inclusion. The winger’s movement and finishing showcased why Eddie Howe values him so highly.

Substitutes Maintain Momentum
Newcastle’s substitutes slotted in seamlessly to preserve energy levels ahead of their European commitments.

Callum Wilson and Anthony Gordon provided fresh legs against tiring defenders, while Lewis Miley and Sean Longstaff helped see out the game comfortably.

Manchester United’s Struggles
For the visitors, few emerged with credit. Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir looked shaky throughout, while the defensive trio of Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro and Victor Lindelöf failed to cope with Newcastle’s movement. Only Alejandro Garnacho and Zirkzee showed brief glimpses of threat before being substituted.

The Verdict
This comprehensive victory underlined Newcastle’s growing credentials as a force to be reckoned with. Tonali’s man-of-the-match performance epitomized their midfield control, while Barnes’ double provided the cutting edge.

For Manchester United, the performance raised more questions than answers as their inconsistent season continues.

As Newcastle build momentum towards potential European qualification, this display served notice of their capabilities when firing on all cylinders. The individual performances – particularly from Tonali, Barnes and Guimarães – suggest Eddie Howe’s project is moving in an exciting direction.