Newcastle United played one of his best games this season last Tuesday, against Manchester City, earning a draw at the St. James’ Park. One of the biggest contributors to this amazing display was Cheik Tiote, a lad who, at 29 years old, many people view as an aging and past his prime player, but still is good enough to be the man of the match in this very important game.
Tiote’s Newcastle career almost ended in this last transfer window. With the signing of Henry Saivet from Bordeaux, he became expendable. The fee was agreed and he was allowed to leave to Chinese Super League, but in the last moment the player and his new club couldn’t agree on his wages and Cheick was kept in the squad. Now it’s looking like a big bless.
The Frenchman hasn’t adapted fast enough to the Premier League and with playing time, Cheik’s regaining his best form, after a long period of injuries, poor displays and transfer rumours. In the last couple of games, he’s showing why he’s still our best option at the DM position.
In his prime Tiote was a beast at his role, protecting the defenders with so much physicality. He had a combination of power, speed, and stamina who was hard to match. Despite an offensive skillset limited to short passes and long shot ability, his hard work to win possessions back was awesome and his defensive skills were the perfect fit to play alongside the technically gifted and playmaking Yohan Cabaye. The result was a nice partnership who helped Newcastle to a top 5 finish in 2011/12.
Against Manchester City, we could watch some of that Tiote again and the Magpies really need him. Despite the fact that we have a lot of midfielders in our squad, no one offers what Cheick can do. Shelvey is more of a Cabaye replacement and maybe is the ideal lad to play alongside him when all is said and done. Anita is nice all around, but’s too small and maybe is better suited to a fullback position in the PL. He played some left back at Ajax, can play both sides and is showing promise at this position. Saivet needs time but looks to me like a guy who has a lot of potential as a skilled Midfielder, not a true hardworking, physical DM. Colback is the closest to Cheick. He plays with heart and works really hard, has a better pass but lacks the physical attributes, especially the strength Tiote has. He’s surely a capable DM, but not at the Tiote’s level protecting the defense.
Add to all of that the fact this lad is one of Newcastle most experienced players, with a lot of PL and international matches to his resume and it’s easy to see why a top manager like Rafa Benitez was quick to recognize his value and utilize what he has to offer. It’s a huge battle to avoid relegation this season and if Newcastle Utd is able to survive, Cheick Tiote resurgence will be one of the reasons for sure.
