Jacob Ramsey has reportedly signed for Newcastle United with only the official announcement remaining, but where does he fit in? At first glance it’s hard to tell the answer. So let’s take a deeper dive. The English international is considered an attacking midfielder/winger. Tonali and Bruno’s positions in the squad aren’t where Ramsey could fit in. That Joelinton role however, could just be where Howe slots him in when needed.
Offensively
We need a lot of squad rotation, with four competitions this year, and a good enough player to cover each position is necessary for us to compete. It would make sense for Eddie to use Ramsey in that combined role used on the left hand side that allows the winger to drift in. What Joelinton excels at is his defensive ability, successfully tackling 79% of the time last season. Compare that to Ramsey and he lags behind with 59%, not ideal, but only just short of Willock's 60% last season.
Defensively
Ramsey’s attacking ability on the other hand, is what to look out for. His successful take on percentage stands at a staggering 57.4%, Joelinton and Willock stand at 32.6% and 34.3% respectively. Already showing to be an upgrade on Willock. Ramsey also likes to draw fouls and commits very little himself. Committing only 19 fouls last season and receiving 4 yellow cards (and a red for a second yellow, but we will ignore that).
I do not think that Ramsey is an instant fit for this Newcastle side. The Magpies currently have one of, if not THE best, midfield three in the Premier League. It’s hard for any player to get in. Just look at Lewis Miley, who only made 4 starts last season and played a total of 6.1 90 minutes of football. Someone who I think we need to see more of this season, that’s a different story for a different day. In the end, I’m a fan of the Magpies bringing in Jacob Ramsey and can not only see him improving under Eddie Howe but also what Ramsey could offer during our heavy schedule going into this season.