Steve Bruce has admitted that he is tempted to keep Isaac Hayden in a central defensive role ahead of Newcastle United’s midweek Premier League clash with Leeds, while speaking to the Chronicle.
With Jamaal Lascelles, Fabian Schar and Federico Fernandez all ruled out before West Brom’s trip to St James’ Park on Saturday, the Magpies boss would have been forgiven for enduring a sleepless night or two.
But he needn’t have worried.
Because, in Hayden, he has a midfielder who is apparently equally comfortable at centre-half.
The former Hull City man shone in an unfamiliar role as Newcastle narrowly-defeated the Baggies, making six clearances and three interceptions as he adapted to a new position in fine style.
“I thought the performance of Isaac was terrific. It gives me food for thought,” Bruce said when asked if Hayden would retain his position at Elland Road on Wednesday.
“It’s a silver lining. He is our fittest player at the club.”
Fernandez is due to return to action in West Yorkshire, but it remains to be seen whether the Argentine is thrown straight back into the starting XI.
The ex-Swansea City star averages 5.1 clearances per game in the Premier League (the third most in the division) and his aerial presence would undoubtedly come in handy against a Leeds side who rely heavily on crosses in the final third.
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