'Might have gone under the radar': BBC pundit hails 'outstanding' Newcastle player who won 10 duels v Arsenal today

Today at 02:15 PM

Newcastle United have once again got the better of Arsenal at St James’ Park as they ran out 1-0 winners in Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off.

Last November, the Magpies beat the Gunners by the same scoreline as Anthony Gordon grabbed a 64th-minute winner.

This time round, Gordon provided the assist to undo Arsenal, crossing for Alexander Isak to head home in the 12th minute.

And while Isak’s goal proved the difference, the Gunners were toothless at the other end, not forcing Nick Pope into a single save.

BBC Sport pundit James McFadden has now spoken about an “outstanding” Newcastle player who he thought “might have gone under the radar”.

James McFadden hails ‘outstanding’ Newcastle ace Lewis Hall

The player in question is Lewis Hall, who delivered a superb performance to keep the usually dangerous Bukayo Saka at bay.

Indeed, the 20-year-old did not actually go under the radar – he won the Man of the Match award for his efforts.

Nonetheless, McFadden picked up on how good Hall was, deeming him “outstanding” as he covered the game on BBC Radio 5 Live.

“Someone who might have gone under the radar is Lewis Hall at left-back,” McFadden said in the latter stages of the game.

“He has been outstanding for Newcastle so far today, keeping Bukayo Saka relatively quiet.”

Lewis Hall stats and media ratings

As per Sofascore, Hall weighed in with eight clearances, four tackles, two blocks and one interception.

He also won six ground duels and four aerial duels, took 62 touches of the ball and completed 74 percent of his passes.

Chronicle Live gave Hall a 9 out of 10 and wrote: “A Rolls-Royce performance at left-back.

“Offered plenty going forward with some excellent tackles and clearances. Had fans singing his name and rightly so.”

Meanwhile, the Shields Gazette gave Hall a 9 and wrote: “Made two important blocks to deny Arsenal from close range.

“Had to be alert up against Saka and put in an excellent challenge to stop Trossard down his side.

“Made the left back position his own this season and seems to be getting better by the week.”