Lee Ryder has slammed Jeff Hendrick after the Newcastle United man got himself sent off for two bookings versus Southampton in the Premier League.
The football journalist did not hold back in his analysis of Hendrick’s display in his latest piece for The Chronicle, as he gave the Republic of Ireland international a mere 2/10 overall rating, describing his second yellow card as ‘beyond stupidity’ and adding that he will be a ‘relieved’ man after the 3-2 win at St. James’ Park.
Steve Bruce’s team raced into a two-goal lead with debutant Joe Willock and Miguel Almiron on the scoresheet, before Takumi Minamino, on loan from Liverpool, pulled one back for the Saints.
Almiron grabbed his second of the afternoon just before half-time as the Tyneside club were relatively comfortable.
However, James Ward-Prowse made the game nervy in the North East with a great free kick before Hendrick got himself a red card just a minute later, which could have put his side in real trouble.
Hendrick was poor for Newcastle
Aside from his sending off, Hendrick was pretty poor for the Magpies. The central midfield player failed to record a single shot on goal, dribble, clearance, tackle, key pass or cross in the match (Sofascore).
He also lost possession of the ball no fewer than 10 times, and given that he only had a mere 20 touches of the ball in total in the clash (Sofascore), the 29-year-old lost it every two touches on average.
It was an afternoon to forget personally for Hendrick, currently valued at £8.1m by Transfermarkt, but at least the Toon spared his blushes by getting all three points.
In other news, find out what update Mark Douglas has dropped on the potential takeover here!