Newcastle have had a turnaround in form following back-to-back wins against Watford and Bournemouth after making a terrible start to the season.

And one factor behind the Magpies change in fortunes has been the introduction of summer signing Ki Sung-yueng to the side.

The Breakdown

Ki was influential in both of Newcastle’s recent victories from the middle of the park, and has since come in for praise from manager Rafael Benitez.

“When we signed him we knew he was a player who is quite good on the ball,” Benitez told the Evening Chronicle. “He can pass well and make the right decisions. That is important for us. He has experience too. I think he has more composure on the ball and does well.”

Looking at Newcastle’s squad, the team were in desperate need of a midfielder of Ki’s profile. Bar Jonjo Shelvey, Benitez was not in possession of a midfield man capable of playing passes through the lines and making switches in play at the appropriate time.

As a result, in the absence of Shelvey, Benitez’s side would lose so much going forward, often struggling to get their transitions from defence to attack done properly.

However, with the arrival of Ki from Swansea City, the Magpies now have someone who can carry out the same responsibilities as the England man.

After a slow start to life at St. James’ Park, Ki has come alive and has the ability to kick on and help Newcastle climb up the table.