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DeAndre Yedlin’s summer transfer to Newcastle United was undoubtedly a risky move. Leaving the Premier League to go to a club he’s not even guaranteed playing time could’ve spelled disaster. However, it appears that just like he did with Sunderland, he’s making the most of his chances and winning over his judges.
The U.S. international made his full debut for the Magpies in the EFL Cup (League Cup) on Tuesday in a 2-0 win over Wolves and drew rave reviews from the fans and media alike.
Yedlin - A real athlete; got up high to win headers & lightning across the ground. Looked sharp both defensively & going forward. #NUFC
— Black&WhiteBarmy (@BlackWhiteBarmy) September 20, 2016
@GP they did collectively well. Yedlin the pick of the bunch with Hanley a close second. Jury still out on Lazaar. Clark solid enough.
— Lee Buchanan (@ljbuchanan80) September 20, 2016
Yedlin played in his normal right back role and was able to get forward more than he usually did at Sunderland when most of the time his teams were cautious in defense. Judging from the highlights of the match below, he could’ve had several assists from great service into the box if only the finishes were as good.
The Chronicle Live had this to say about Yedlin’s performance on the night:
Completing the new full-back set, Yedlin’s first start for Newcastle was a pleasing one.
Playing against teams that come to sit back, soak up pressure and hit United on the break, having two energetic, pacey full-backs is going to be a compelling option for Benitez. And there can’t be many in the Championship who are quicker than Yedlin, who could become a real Newcastle crowd pleaser.
They also ran a poll asking if Yedlin should start the next league match against Aston Villa. With over 1,000 responses already, 97% of voters say he should.
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While it’s still early in his tenure at Newcastle United, it appears as if he’s doing exactly what he did at Sunderland and winning over a starting job by his good work habits and play on the field.
Jurgen Klinsmann has to be extremely thrilled with this development as it’s exactly what he preaches to all of his players. He constantly harps on about USMNT players challenging themselves and putting themselves out of their comfort zones. The Championship is certainly that for Yedlin and so far he’s proving he’s up to the task.
Hopefully he carries on and continues to impress and wins consistent minutes. If he does that, his USMNT job should be safe.