‘Best Newcastle player by a mile’: Gary Neville already blown away by one of Howe’s signings

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Newcastle United beat Aston Villa 1-0 on Sunday afternoon, with pundit Gary Neville raving about new signing Dan Burn’s performance.

The Magpies were seeking a third straight win and got exactly what they wanted thanks to Kieran Trippier’s first-half goal.

Trippier’s deflected free kick was enough to secure the win for Newcastle, who battled hard and stood firm in the second half.

That’s a third win in a row, taking Newcastle four points clear of the relegation zone in a major boost to their survival hopes.

Keeping a clean sheet was vital for Newcastle, and whilst they got a tad fortunate with Ollie Watkins’ goal ruled out for offside, it was a strong defensive showing.

One of the key performances came from new signing Burn, who was making his debut after joining from Brighton and Hove Albion.

That was a hugely emotional move for Burn, who was born in Blyth and grew up supporting Newcastle.

Burn even started his career at Newcastle before being released as a kid, dropping down to non-league before working his way back up to the Magpies.

Burn will be desperate to keep Newcastle in the Premier League given his affinity for the club, and he excelled against Villa.

The 29-year-old recorded one interception, three clearances, one blocked shot and one aerial duel in a strong performance.

Pundit Gary Neville took the time to hail Burn’s display, picking him out as the man of the match on his Newcastle debut.

Neville suggested that Burn did a great job of clearing the ball far away from the Newcastle goal, leaving Villa frustrated.

Neville also praised Burn’s composure and leadership, suggesting that he helped organise a Newcastle defence like few have managed before.

“He’s been the best Newcastle player by a mile, Dan Burn,” said Neville. “He’s brought real composure at the back. He’s leading that line. All his work has been really good.”

“He’s done that really well today, Burn, his headed clearances have been really solid, good distance on them.”

“Without a shadow of a doubt, Dan Burn. I’ve not seen a Newcastle defence as organised as this, and up the pitch. Yes I’ve seen them defend at the edge of the box, deep and look like they’re compact but they’ve done it the proper way today, where they’ve pushed right up to the halfway line,” he added.