Newcastle United ace Isaac Hayden has starred since joining the club.
Newcastle United appear to be coasting towards promotion back to the Premier League, with many of Rafael Benitez’s summer signings impressing so far.
Ciaran Clark, Matt Ritchie and Dwight Gayle have all played key roles so far, but a less experienced player has also become important for Benitez.
General view of ST. James’ Park
The Magpies swooped to sign midfielder Isaac Hayden from Arsenal over the summer, after the 21-year-old featured for Steve Bruce on loan at Hull City last season.
Hayden played 18 Championship games to help Hull win promotion to the Premier League last season, and he looks set to play a key role in aiding Newcastle’s push to return to the top flight as well.
Newcastle United’s Isaac Hayden and Huddersfield Town’s Nahki Wells in action
Whilst he arrived as one for the future, Hayden has racked up 16 starts in the Championship, and has added bite in midfield to go alongside Jonjo Shelvey’s playmaking ability.
Newcastle fans have been left impressed by Hayden’s performances so far, and whilst he may be called upon to contribute more offensively now Shelvey is suspended, the former Arsenal starlet looks to have a huge future ahead of him.
Hayden’s potential as well as his versatility – he can also play at centre back – means that he should become a permanent fixture of the Newcastle side over the coming years, even when the club return to the top flight.
His performances this term have been a pleasant surprise for Newcastle fans, and also make him the club’s Young Player of the Year so far after a superb first half of the season.
Have you been impressed with Hayden’s performances?
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