Manchester United have been linked with a move for Newcastle hard man Cheick Tiote in the summer, after reportedly failing with an enquiry in January, in a bid to add some steel to their midfield. Here are three reasons why it is a good idea.
The Ivorian provides the sort of defensive presence in midfield that United have been craving for this season. He averages 5 defensive actions per game and has managed 43 interceptions, 10 blocks and 52 clearances in his 21 appearances this season. He is always snapping into tackles into midfield and that constant pressing is currently lacking in the current United setup.
Besides, Titote is built like a tank, and his physical presence will add something extra to United as he is clearly capable of playing a more physical game if the situation demands, which United are currently incapable of.
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).
For a defensive player in midfield, he has a very good passing range and has attempted 1229 passes of which 1071 have found their target (87% accuracy). Compared to Carrick (86% accuracy), who has been United’s first choice in the defensive midfield role, Tiote has been more accurate with his passes. Even though the statistic is surprising, it speaks volumes about a player who adapted nicely to the shorter passing game that Newcastle have used this season under Alan Pardew.
Although his deep role does not neccessarly encourage him to get forward and create chances, he has created 12 chances so far this season, including an assist. Tiote would fit in nicely into the role of cycling possession from the back, and allow more freedom and time to Carrick to pick out dangerous balls.
(All stats via Squawka)
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