Fernandez can earn major plaudits this weekend by shackling Arnautovic

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Newcastle United defender Federico Fernandez would see his stock rise higher if he can keep Marko Arnautovic quiet this weekend.

The Magpies host West Ham United on Saturday and are looking for their fourth straight Premier League victory after an impressive turnaround under Rafa Benitez.

Wins against Watford, Bournemouth and Burnley have lifted Newcastle up to 13th in the table, and confidence will be soaring in the dressing room.

By contrast, West Ham have won just once in their last six top-flight matches and could really do with three points to ease some of the pressure.

Most of their hopes will rest on talisman Arnautovic, but Newcastle’s Fernandez has been in brilliant form himself.

Fernandez vs Arnautovic

The Argentine has been a rock at the back for Newcastle since signing for the club from Swansea City in a £6 million deal (BBC Sport).

He’s barely put a foot wrong, but he could be in for a tough afternoon against Arnautovic.

The Austrian, confirmed to be fit for the clash by Manuel Pellegrini in his press conference, relishes physical battles and could really give Fernandez a few things to think about.

He’ll be hoping to add to his goal tally of five but Fernandez will be determined to be resolute.

He’ll earn major plaudits if he can keep Arnautovic quiet, as the 29-year-old can be a huge handful on his day.