Newcastle United have confirmed on their official website that Florian Lejeune will miss the remainder of this season after sustaining a serious knee injury against Crystal Palace last weekend. The French centre-back was stretchered off during the second half of Newcastle’s league encounter versus the Eagles at St. James’ Park. The Tyneside club has now confirmed that the injury Lejeune suffered is quite severe and will rule him out for the rest of this campaign.
This recent development will be a huge blow for the Magpies as Lejeune has emerged as an integral member of Rafael Benitez’s backline thus far. The Paris born talent had put in a series of commanding displays at the back for the Tyneside giants during the second half of this campaign.
Lejeune’s Rise To The Top Since The Turn Of The Year
The 27-year-old has featured in a total of 12 matches for the Magpies this term but is yet to find the back of the net. More importantly, he has performed well defensively, making an average of 2.1 tackles, 1.8 interceptions and 3.7 clearances per match in the Premier League.
Lejeune managed to represent his nation at the Under-20 level, but he has still not managed to secure an international cap for the French national side. This recent injury will be a bitter pill to swallow for the defender as Lejeune was playing the best football of his life before his setback on Saturday afternoon.
What Does The French Defender Add To Benitez’s Side?
The French defensive ace is not afraid to put his body on the line and can make timely interceptions for his team. He is physically strong and can command his own box with authority and conviction. Lejeune is an old-fashioned, no-nonsense centre-half which is one of the main reasons why he has been so impressive of late when Benitez has opted to play a defensive style to grind out results for the Magpies.
Lejeune’s Injury: Huge Blow For The Magpies?
The loss of Lejeune to injury will be a big blow for the Tyneside outfit, but fortunately for them, the club is currently in no danger of being relegated from the Premier League. Hence, Benitez’s men should not have too many problems coping with his absence for the time being.
Only time will tell whether the French centre-back can come back stronger than ever when he eventually returns from his knee injury next season.
