DeAndre Yedlin endured a mixed evening for the United States against Mexico. Newcastle United must now ensure he has competition at St James’ Park.
After battling with DeAndre Yedlin for the starting right-back berth at Newcastle United last season, Vurnon Anita’s release was announced on Friday.
And, with Jesus Gamez previously offering little threat to either player, Yedlin now appears to be Rafa Benitez’s sole option in that position.
The Seattle-born flyer is a starter for the United States, too, even if he endured some hairy moments in their 1-1 World Cup qualifying draw with rivals Mexico on Sunday night.
Yedlin showed his energy in getting up and down the right flank, but his defensive work was not quite up to the high standards he set himself in a black and white shirt, repeatedly allowing Mexican players to deliver dangerous crosses.
Under Bruce Arena, though, the 23-year-old has little competition – and that could signal a potential problem for Newcastle, too.
Yedlin’s fine performances in the Championship came as a result of Anita’s threat; a threat that will leave St James’ Park at the end of the month.
Arsenal’s Calum Chambers has been linked with a move to Newcastle – in the Telegraph – and Benitez would be wise to bring in the versatile defender, even just to push Yedlin on again.
The former Tottenham Hotspur man deserves a place in the first team, but he must be encouraged to keep working improving. Chambers could apply suitable pressure.
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