A few days on from Alaves’ shock win over Real Madrid, an impressive clip has emerged of what can only be described as a brilliant piece of defending by our very own Florian Lejeune.
The Frenchman has been gaining rave reviews following a string of strong displays in Spain and his best one yet arrived over the weekend during a heroic 1-2 win over Real Madrid – which saw him named in one paper’s La Liga Team of the Week.
As you can see below, Mariano’s 83rd minute header looked destined to go in and rescue a late point for the hosts – only for the NUFC loanee to read the danger superbly!
It’s easy to say that Steve Bruce got it wrong in sending him out on loan, especially when he’s said to be targeting another centre-back in January, however he is clearly benefiting hugely from regular game time in Spain – something he may not have been given had he stuck around at St James’ Park this season.
After a few awful ACL injuries and a lack of starts needed to rediscover some form and match fitness, he had to play to kickstart his career.
That said, his impressive La Liga form should make Steve Bruce realise what a classy defender he has on his hands ahead of his return in 2021.
Hopefully he can stay injury free and continue impressing with Alaves – a club who will be keen to sign him permanently next summer, not send him back to Newcastle!
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