Bruce names player who put in "arguably his best performance" for NUFC last night

Steve Bruce has heaped praise on Jeff Hendrick following his display in last night's defeat to Burnley, believing it was his best performance in a black and white shirt.

Playing against the club he left last summer, the Irishman had six shots - more than any other player on the pitch - and completed more tackles; a total only better by midfield partner Sean Longstaff.

That said, he did miss one huge chance in second half, with that proving costly as we went on to lose the game on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

Here's what Bruce had to say about his performance when speaking to BBC Newcastle after the game:

“It’s arguably his best performance for us, apart from the (missed) chances.

"He’s played very well.

"I was pleased with Jeff tonight.”

Interestingly, his match rating on WhoScored.com - one of the leading stat sites - was the second poorest of all the outfield players, with Emil Krafth's 6.71 rating the only one below Hendrick's mark of 6.76.

That said, he was more lively than usual, got himself into some good positions and looked up for the right against his former club - let's just hope this doesn't convince Bruce to opt against signing another midfielder before next week's deadline!

A day on from last night's Carabao Cup defeat, the 29-year-old has received a call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of next week's international break.