2. Ability to take on players
The 27 year old has been one of the better players for Newcastle this season, and much of it has been due to the all-action role he performs in midfield. Not only is he snapping into tackles (120 attempted tackles, 40% success rate) but he is also a handful in aerial duels (49% success from 49 duels) despite his short stature.
On top of that, he has an incredible 83% success rate from the 24 take ons he has attempted this season, showing his ability to move past players with the ball if he so desires. To add to the mix, he possesses a mean shot from distance (remember the controversial disallowed goal against Manchester City?), and has attempted 23 shots so far (26% accuracy).