Fewer passes than Dubravka: Newcastle lightweight who made 0 tackles blew his chance - opinion

Newcastle United extended their unbeaten run in the Premier League to six games as they came from behind to draw 1-1 away at West Ham United.

Craig Dawson headed in the first goal of the game as the defender met Aaron Cresswell’s free-kick just after the half an hour mark before Joe Willock equalised before half-time with his first of the season.

It was another solid result for Eddie Howe’s side as they look to extend the gap between them and the relegation zone, however, one player in particular struggled: Emil Krafth.

With Kieran Trippier set to face a spell on the sidelines, the right-back came in for his ninth league appearance of the season at the London Stadium but failed to take the opportunity to impress handed to him by Howe.

According to SofaScore, the Swede ranked a 6.4/10 rating, the lowest of any Newcastle player. The 27-year-old managed just two clearances and failed to make a single tackle, block or interception whilst winning just 40% of his duels.

From an offensive point of view, the right-back also lacked quality, failing to attempt a dribble whilst offering no key passes or shots.

Krafth’s passing was decent, averaging a 75% success rate, however, the Newcastle defender completed just 21 passes, fewer than that of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka who completed 26.

With Trippier set to face a number of weeks on the sidelines after having an operation on his foot, Krafth will have to step up in the Englishman’s place.

The 31-year-old was the Magpies’ first January signing, returning to his homeland after a successful spell at Atletico Madrid and his arrival marked a significant decrease in game time for the Swede.

However, Krafth now has an opportunity once again to give Howe a selection headache, with fellow