OPINION
Newcastle United defender Paul Dummett is undoubtedly one of the more underrated players in the Magpies’ squad, but he has shone brightly in recent weeks.
Firstly, he made a game-changing impact off the bench in the team’s comeback win over Everton, then he produced an impressive defensive display in the 2-2 draw at Bournemouth last time out.
The natural left back made a number of vital clearances against the Cherries in a makeshift centre back role, forming part of a sturdy Newcastle backline that looked fairly comfortable for much of the afternoon.
His goal-line clearance, which saved a certain Bournemouth strike, was an unbelievable moment that potentially changed the game. Everyone else had given up on the ball, but the Welsh international ensured it wouldn’t cross the line, acrobatically hooking it away in stunning fashion.
The 27-year-old must now be considered undroppable for manager Rafael Benitez. Florian Lejeune is a fairly automatic selection at the back at this point, while Fabian Schar’s absence through suspension means the experienced Federico Fernandez is likely to remain.
That leaves one spot in the team’s three-man central defensive unit, which will be contested by Dummett and Jamaal Lascelles.
Lascelles, Newcastle’s captain, missed that game through injury and we’ll have to wait and see how quickly he recovers first.
But regardless of whether the skipper is fully fit for the team’s next game or not, Dummett should get the nod ahead of him. He is in unbelievable form and Benitez would be wise to ride the hot hand.
If he doesn’t keep the Welshman in the line up there should be a riot on Tyneside – his Bournemouth display should mean he’s guaranteed of a starting spot.