Having not played any minutes of professional football since 26 November 2016, it was a shock to see Chancel Mbemba thrust into the Newcastle XI against Burton last night.Granted, Rafa Benitez needed to rotate his options given the relentlessness of the Championship’s fixture schedule and the Brewers coming to town offered a decent chance to go with a team lacking some key names, but the DR Congo ace looked to be completely out-of-favour.
However, he put in a fine performance at St James’ Park, bringing back memories of the showings he producedÂas Newcastle slipped to relegation from the Premier League last term – he was one of very few Magpies players able to hold his head high. Burton didn’t offer a great deal to threaten the Tynesiders, but Mbemba dealt with everything thrown his way as his side moved back to the top of the table…
As the numbers show, the 22-year-old was impressive and although his centre-back partner Jamaal Lascelles may have outshone him on the night, nine clearances was a Newcastle high, while three interceptions, two won aerial duels and no fouls illustrated his prowess.
Benitez needs his side to get over the line to gain promotion and he may find hit hard to bomb Mbemba back out after his Burton performance.
