Newcastle ‘machine’ is Eddie Howe’s new undroppable – but it’s not Anthony Elanga

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Newcastle United battered Union St. Gilloise in the Champions League, with a player now simply undroppable for Eddie Howe after yet another masterclass.

Goals from Nick Woltemade, Harvey Barnes and an Anthony Gordon double gave the Geordies their first three points in Europe’s finest competition this season after Newcastle’s loss to Barcelona in the last fixture.

There were a bunch of standout performers on the night. Anthony Elanga arguably had his best game in a Newcastle shirt, whilst Gordon proved his worth in the Champions League.

But aside from the attackers, the defensive display was also equally as astute, much because of new recruit, Malick Thiaw.

Malick Thiaw now irreplaceable for Newcastle

Thiaw arrived at Newcastle with big expectations. Howe was in need of a more competent centre-back to partner Sven Botman, with the AC Milan centre-back deemed the candidate for the role.

Thiaw had a slow start to life at Newcastle, but has cemented a firm spot in the starting XI since the 0-0 draw with Bournemouth. Now – this simply has to continue.

The German was sensational on Wednesday evening, putting in a near-flawless performance that was reflected in his stats on the night.

He may not have got the plaudits that other players, like Elanga and Gordon, received, but his presence at the back can’t go unnoticed – and should continue to be an ever-present force in that Magpies backline.

Newcastle show love to their new Champions League hero

Fans have taken to the 24-year-old like a duck to water; they chanted his name from the stands at full-time.

Will Osula described Thiaw as a ‘machine’ on Instagram following the win over Bradford – and that was certainly the case again in Europe.

Botman and Thiaw are a force to be reckoned with in the Howe backline. Now, seemingly with goals flowing a little more easily, Howe’s team – and season – is starting to come together.