Newcastle United midfielder Jeff Hendrick continued his ‘dramatic’ transformation with an ‘exceptional’ performance as the Republic of Ireland battered Qatar 4-0 on Tuesday night, manager Stephen Kenny told Balls IE.
It’s not just Steve Bruce who is glancing nervously over his shoulder at St James’ Park.
While the under-fire gaffer looks set to be the first major casualty of the Saudi Arabian era, Newcastle’s playing staff are fighting for their futures too.
The likes of Niklas Sule, Marcelo Brozovic, Donny Van de Beek and Mauro Icardi have already been linked with the ‘richest club in world football’, meaning the likes of Hendrick have little choice but to up their game – and fast – if they are to play a leading role in this ‘rags to riches’ tale.
Does Jeff Hendrick have a future at Newcastle United?
The former Burnley ace could hardly have picked a better time to undergo something of a personal renaissance, following up his long-range rocket against Wolves recently with an effervescent, all-action display as the Republic of Ireland made it two wins from two during the October international break.
“(His transformation) really is dramatic,” Kenny said of a man who set up one of Callum Robinson’s three goals on Tuesday with an inch-perfect through ball.
“Jeff went through a period when things weren’t really happening for him. He has every attribute. He was absolutely outstanding tonight.
“It was a complete all-around performance in every facet of his play, his energy around the park, his vision, his first touch, his understanding of his role in the team.
“He definitely benefitted from the space of only playing two in midfield and the three wide players. It really suits him that position.
“That is one of the best games I have ever seen him play, to be honest. I thought he was really exceptional.”
Hendrick has played just 60 minutes of Premier League football this season, starting one of Newcastle’s seven games under Bruce.
Is his return to form a flash-in-the-pan purple patch or something more transformative?
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