Newcastle United are set to sign former Burnley midfielder Jeff Hendrick ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Republic of Ireland international left the East Lancashire outfit at the end of June when his contract expired after failing to reach a new agreement.
Now Steve Bruce’s side lead the race to sign Hendrick, but where would he fit in on Tyneside?
A central midfielder by trade
The 28 year old from Dublin is more suited to playing in the central of midfield where he has the license to get forward and attack.
Hendrick also has the knowhow of when to sit deep and protect the backline and is comfortable dictating the play from a deep lying position.
With four years of top flight experience to his name, The Magpies will be getting a solid piece to help guide their younger midfielders.
Sean and Matty Longstaff have lengthy careers ahead of them, and Isaac Hayden has been around the first team setup for some time now.
Yet they are all missing something that Hendrick possesses.
International experience is key, and Hendrick has played against some of the World’s best in his 54 appearances for his country.
Slotting in alongside Jonjo Shelvey would provide not only ability but the experience to manage games and help push Newcastle further up the table.
Versatility is a blessing
Hendrick can also be utilised in other positions, namely on the right side of midfield.
Featuring there more times this last season for The Clarets, the Irishman will be able to add cover to the wide position if necessary.
Allan Saint-Maximin and Matt Richie will be the likely starters on either side but cover for the wide positions is threadbare to say the least.
Hendrick has the ability to comfortably carry the ball and has the range of passing to be a useful piece out on the wing.
Hendrick has scored nine times since making his Premier League debut, and has never made an error leading to a goal, according to Premierleague.com.