Rafa Benitez, who tried his best to keep the Magpies in the top flight of English football late last season has now been given the responsibility for getting them back to the Premier League. United’s opening day defeat to Fulham, however, left many baffled as they were expected to start off on a winning note. The former Champions League winning manager has started to work with the squad in hand and has already made a number of additions to help him in his adventure in the Championship. And it is now reported that the manager is set to complete the signature of England U-19 defender Brendan Galloway from Everton in the coming days.
The 20-year old, who was born in Zimbabwe, moved to England at the age of 6 and is a product of the MK Dons academy. He moved to Everton a couple of years ago and managed to make 17 appearances for the senior team. He has represented England in all the levels till U-19 and is an exciting prospect in English domestic football. Primarily a left-back, the 20-year old is also comfortable in a central defensive role but Benitez wants the youngster to play in his strongest position, a place that was covered by the likes of Paul Dummett, Jack Colback, Vurnon Anita and Jonas Gutierrez in the previous season.
The manager has also completed a deal for Anita to keep him at the club on a permanent basis but Galloway can easily be Benitez’ first choice at the left-back spot. The 20-year old is a strong and athletic defender who has the discipline to flourish even in the Premier League. He makes a number of tackles in crucial areas and often stays ahead of the game while his concentration allows him to keep his part of the field away from danger. He loves to throw his body on the line for his team and is a defender every manager would want in their squad.
He is an excellent passer of the ball while his attacking runs allow him to create chances for his teammates. But his biggest assets are his defensive abilities. He hardly makes mistakes that cost his side and is a player that can be trusted upon. Though at his tender age, he may not be able to provide a base for the Magpies to get back into the Premier League just a season after relegation, he is definitely a player who Rafa Benitez will admire. His work rate and dedication will earn him a place in Newcastle’s side next season and if he can prove himself, he can cement a place in their squad in the coming years.
He is expected to move on a loan deal with an option to make it permanent and if he can help Newcastle to glory next season, he will surely be snapped up with increased wages. The consistent game time he may get at the St James Park will help him grow as a player and may help him realize his potential. So this deal for Galloway seems to be a win-win for all parties involved. What do you think Galloway will add to Benitez’s squad next season?
