Alan Shearer praises ‘assured’ Newcastle star Malick Thiaw, puts him in his Premier League Team of the Week | OneFootball

Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw endured a slow start to life at St James’ Park, struggling to break into Eddie Howe’s starting XI.

However, the Newcastle ace eventually got his opportunity and has grabbed it with both hands, delivering terrific performances at the back for the Magpies.

Thiaw was imperious as Newcastle beat Fulham in Tyneside this weekend to push up to 12th on the Premier League table.

The 24-year-old won 3/3 ground and five out of six aerial duels.

He also recorded three clearances and showed his brilliance on the ball, completing 57 of 63 passes (90% accuracy).

His performances hugely impressed Magpies legend Alan Shearer, who added the German to his Premier League Team of the Week.

On Thiaw, Shearer said (via PremierLeague.com), “Continued his assured start since joining Newcastle in the summer.

“Looked really composed on the ball and gave very little away in defence.”

Thiaw’s patience pays off

Signed this summer for around £35 million, Thiaw found himself behind the pecking order.

But since helping the Geordies keep a clean sheet vs Bournemouth on September 21, he has not left the XI.

Patience is a virtue, and Thiaw’s journey proves it. After months of waiting and adapting to Howe’s demanding system, the German’s calm persistence has paid off.

Now settled and exuding confidence, he’s showing exactly why Newcastle invested heavily in his potential.

Alongside Sven Botman, Thiaw offers the balance of composure and physical dominance the Magpies need.

If both defenders can stay fit, they could form the backbone of Newcastle’s defence for years to come, a pairing capable of guiding the club toward its lofty ambitions.

Thiaw’s rise is a testament to trusting the process, biding your time, and delivering when opportunity finally knocks.

Thiaw will be key as the Toons bid to climb into one of the European slots, defend their League Cup crown, and give a good account of themselves in the Champions League.