Match Coverage

Micah Richards was blown away by what he saw from ‘outstanding’ Arsenal star vs Newcastle

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Micah Richards gave a special shoutout to one Arsenal player after watching the Gunners beat Newcastle United.

Finally, Arsenal showed what they’re truly capable of in the Premier League this season. 

Mikel Arteta didn’t appreciate the handbrake criticism, and the boss responded in the perfect way, leading his side to victory at St James’ Park. 

Late goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhaes ensured the three points returned to North London, but it was another player who won over Micah Richards

Newcastle United v Arsenal - Premier League
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Micah Richards praised Jurrien Timber after Arsenal’s win over Newcastle

Arsenal fans were in awe of Jurrien Timber during the contest, as were Richards and his The Rest Is Football co-host, Gary Lineker.

Speaking on the podcast, Richards described Timber as ‘outstanding’, prompting the duo to praise how consistent the Dutchman is in Arsenal’s back four.

“I thought Timber was outstanding,” Richards said, as Lineker responded, “I think he’s consistently excellent.” 

“Always excellent,” Richards continued.

“Whether that be defending, whether that be going forward, whether that be his weight of pass, whether that be his energy. I thought he was excellent.”

Timber was a shining light in a dazzling Arsenal display at St James’ Park, with the right-back influencing the game from kick-off to the full-time whistle.

Timber’s statistics against Newcastle 

Ian Wright mentioned Timber’s strength after watching him in action against Newcastle, as the 24-year-old made things difficult for the hosts. 

As Richards stressed when analysing Timber’s display against the Magpies, the Dutchman was impactful in every sense, attacking, defending and merely his control on the game. 

Jurrien Timber vs Newcastle
6 defensive actions
8 duel wins
89% pass completion
3 key passes
3 successful dribbles
2 shots
Jurrien Timber vs Newcastle United – Sofascore.

The former Ajax star created three chances, as well as firing two shots on goal and completing three dribbles, being a real handful for Newcastle on the right side.

Timber’s attacking contribution didn’t, by any means, jeopardise his defensive duties, as the full-back won eight duels and contributed to six defensive actions in 90 minutes.

After being tested by Manchester City, Timber would’ve wanted to get himself back on track with a meaningful display against Newcastle, which is just what he did.