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Benitez will be drooling over Perez’s defensive contribution

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OPINION

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has had his fair share of critics when it comes to the style of football being employed at St James’ Park – but with Premier League safety getting ever closer you can imagine the criticism will be falling of deaf ears.

A number of pundits have blasted the Spaniard’s decision to take a pragmatic approach with his side’s tactics, often playing a defensive brand of football which leaves little entertainment value for the Toon Army.

Because of this Benitez values hard work and dedication above all else and wants every single one of his players to contribute to the cause when it comes to stopping the opposition and winning the ball back – including those up front.

While Ayoze Perez might not seem like the sort of player who is going to be a threat in the tackle, the Spaniard is in fact seemingly head and shoulders above his Premier League rivals when it comes to defending from the front.

In a detailed analytical report from the Times, it was revealed that Perez has made 35 interceptions in the Premier League this season, 13 more than any other forward in England’s top flight, with the likes of Junior Hoilett (Cardiff), Raul Jimenez (Wolves) and Pedro (Chelsea) trailing in his wake.

He also sits first in the list of recoveries among forwards, although is more closely matched by Richarlison (Everton) and Sadio Mane (Liverpool) in the region of the 120 mark.

That sort of impact is absolutely huge for Benitez and with the manager valuing defensive contribution as much as he does, he will surely be head over heels with his fellow countryman.

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