Jonathan Woodgate has claimed that Tottenham and Newcastle summer transfer target, Tyrick Mitchell, has ‘gone to another level’ this season, as he told BBC Radio 5 Live Sport.
The Crystal Palace defender made his England debut on Saturday and Woodgate stated that Mitchell is a player he really rates.
Those at Selhurst Park won’t like to hear it, but whilst they will be happy with his maiden England call, it’s only going to enhance his reputation further.
Not long after the 22-year-old was called up by his country, transfer rumours emerged that the likes of Tottenham and Newcastle are keen to sign him up in the summer.
Well, former England defender, Woodgate, likes what he sees from the left-back and the balance he has to his game.
“I think he has come on more this season,” said Woodgate. “I know it was his first season with Roy Hodgson, but what he has done this season with Vieira, he has raised his game again.
“He has gone again and gone to the next level. You can see a lot of the big teams are chasing him and they will be after his signature. He’s a really good defender.
“I love him in one v one situations. He is difficult to get past. But he can get forward as well. He’s quick. Hard to beat. I really do rate him as a player.”
With Newcastle set to survive what has been a drama-filled campaign, all eyes will be on St James’ Park during the summer transfer window.
It’s obvious to all the money they can throw at the market, as they aim to push away from their previous relegation fights.
One area that the Magpies could target are players from teams around them because they aren’t in Europe, on high wages or playing in a big pond.
That’s where Palace will start to worry, but with Patrick Vieira at the helm, the Frenchman will be hoping his young and thriving squad can remain intact.
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