Journalist Andrew Musgrove has stated that Newcastle United’s decision to hand Emil Krafth a new contract is a ‘really smart move’.
The Magpies recently announced that the 27-year-old full-back will be signing a one-year extension on his current deal, keeping him at the club until 2024.
The club explained that his contract was due to expire next summer, but the Swede will now remain with the club a little longer, adding to his 62 appearances to date as the new Premier League season approaches.
In reaction to this Newcastle news, Musgrove took to Twitter to express his delight over the deal, saying that Krafth deserves plenty of praise.
Indeed, he wrote: “Really smart move. The improvement in Joelinton, Fabian Schar and Ryan Fraser grabbed most of the headlines, but Emil Krafth deserves just as much if not more praise for the improvement in his game. As does Eddie Howe and his staff.
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TIF Thoughts on Emil Krafth and Newcastle…
For the first half or so of last season, Krafth was limited to very few league appearances, but as the season wore on he became a more important player for the club – playing in 13 of Newcastle’s last 16 games and losing just three times (via Transfermarkt).
With that in mind, it’s easy to see why Musgrove was keen to mention his improvement last term, as well as highlight his importance to the team.
Kieran Trippier will likely be the first-choice option for Howe at right-back, but should the Englishman pick up an injury or need a rest, the Mapgies will now have an able deputy at full-back for the foreseeable.