Newcastle star who won seven duels vs PSG has given Eddie Howe a serious conundrum

Jacob Ramsey was a standout as Newcastle United emerged unbeaten against the champions of Europe on Wednesday.

Newcastle drew 1-1 with PSG at the Parc des Princes to earn a point and end their Champions League first phase in 12th.

The Magpies are now set for two play-off legs against an opponent lower in the table for a place in the last 16.

Newcastle signed Ramsey from Aston Villa in a deal worth around £43million in the summer, but the 24-year-old’s first months at St James’ Park have been difficult.

Ramsey was injured soon after signing for Newcastle, and he has largely featured from the bench since returning.

Jacob Ramsey is outstanding vs PSG

Eddie Howe is wedded to his midfield three of Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton, and for good reason.

The trio form a dominant presence capable of providing Newcastle with defensive security while offering an attacking threat, too.

But on Wednesday, Howe decided to mix it up. Ramsey was deployed in a midfield two with Tonali, as the 48-year-old went with a back-three formation.

While defensive security was not always there, both midfielders thrived, with the former attracting particular praise for his role.

Ramsey took two shots, completed a dribble, made three tackles and five recoveries, and was fouled more than anyone else on the pitch.

He also won seven duels, with PSG‘s incredible midfield of Vitinha, Warren Zaire-Emery and Joao Neves unable to get the better of the Englishman.

Ramsey’s performance has now provided Howe with a serious conundrum in midfield for Newcastle’s upcoming games – although Joelinton’s injury should allow for invention.

What did Eddie Howe say about Ramsey’s performance?

For much of this season, Newcastle fans could not be blamed for wondering why they spent such an astronomical fee on Ramsey.

The midfielder rarely starts for the Magpies, and when he has, he has looked underwhelming at best.

But Wednesday’s performance would have gone some way to changing that verdict. The 24-year-old was determined and energetic, and key to one of Newcastle’s performances of the season so far.

Speaking after the game, Howe said: “JJ, that was his best game for us. He was very good with the ball and very good defensively.

Ramsey will now hope to be in line for a bigger role in the Premier League, with, for now, a spot alongside Tonali and Guimaraes up for grabs.

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