Bruce should consider giving this Newcastle workhorse a rest vs. Villa

Newcastle United are in the midst of a relegation battle and they are without key players across the pitch. While the focus is on finding players to step into the starting lineup, could Steve Bruce actually decide to sit one of his most consistent starters out vs. Aston Villa?

Isaac Hayden should be left out of the starting XI on Friday as he’s been dealing with an ankle injury for a few weeks, according to Bruce. He’s appeared in 22 matches and has 20 starts in the Premier League this season.

Typically, calling for a player to be benched would be a criticism of the player. But, in this case, Hayden has simply earned a day off to get healthy because he will be a valuable piece during the stretch run. The 25-year-old is in the conversation for Most Important Player for Newcastle this season as he’s played in the midfield, in central defense, and even outside back at times.

Sitting Hayden down for tomorrow also allows for a positive tactical change in the midfield. With Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock penciled in as starters every match, Bruce could give Hayden’s place in the lineup to Matty Longstaff.

Steve Bruce should consider resting Isaac Hayden on Friday vs. Aston Villa.

Obviously, the young midfielder isn’t the same caliber of player as Hayden. But, he brings a different dynamic to the middle of the park. Longstaff getting the start would inject some much-needed energy to the struggling Magpies.

Without Hayden, the defensive play in the midfield might suffer, but Matty and Willock driving the ball forward could be just what the doctor ordered. If Bruce still won’t give Longstaff a chance, he could deploy just Shelvey and Willock in the midfield and plug in a true striker, which he’s been reluctant to do recently.

When you combine the benefits of giving Hayden’s ankle some rest and the tactical adjustments that come with it, it’s the right call to sit the hard-working midfielder out against Villa.