Newcastle United’s Isaac Hayden has made 29 appearances since signing from Arsenal last summer.
Rafael Benitez has told the Chronicle that some Newcastle United fans weren’t aware of how good Isaac Hayden was, at the point when he was brought to St. James’ Park.
Hayden was signed by Newcastle from Arsenal last summer, but his switch did not receive as much attention as some of the other players the Magpies brought in.
Newcastle snapped up Matt Ritchie and Dwight Gayle, as well as Hayden, and the trio have all made a big impact.
And Benitez said: “I will not say that [Ritchie was the most surprising summer signing] because then we could talk about Dwight Gayle, and we would say the same.
“Those players are both doing really well, but Isaac Hayden is also someone who people were not necessarily aware of his level.”
Hayden’s combative streak has been important to Newcastle, and he is playing a key part for Benitez’s side.
The 21-year-old’s only previous experience of playing football at Championship level had come on loan against Hull City last season.
However, he has coped well since being thrust into Newcastle’s first-team.
Hayden has now played 29 times for Newcastle so far this term, and scored on one occasion.
The Magpies currently lead the way in the Championship, after beating Rotherham United 4-0 at the weekend.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
