"Wow, what a player!" - Malick Thiaw stunned by Newcastle star & reveals Leeds boost

In amongst a tough few months, Malick Thiaw has been an absolute man mountain at the back for Newcastle United.

Newcastle had been tracking the big German for several years, as we revealed in our first exclusive on our interest back in June 2023, but committed to the move last summer after striking a £35m deal with AC Milan.

Based on his performances so far, that looks an absolute bargain and one of the signings of the summer, with Thiaw showing all the traits of a top modern-day centre-back and an eye for goal with three strikes in 16 league appearances.

He played a key role in Sunday's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace, not only helping us to a rare clean sheet but scoring our second, although it was Bruno Guimaraes who he picked out for special praise when speaking after the match.

“Bruno Guimaraes is incredible. Off the pitch, a super nice guy - but on the pitch, his quality speaks for itself.

"Some things he does, I’m like 'wow - what a player!'"

Thiaw is right and echoed Howe's thoughts on the 'special' player and person that is Bruno Guimaraes. Not only a great character, but an outstanding footballer with bags of quality and the ability to deliver in the big moments, as he did once again on Sunday.

Speaking to Premier League reporter Andy Sixsmith, Thiaw also spoke highly of the unity within the side, Wor Flags' pre-match display, the importance of that first clean sheet in 13 and the confidence it's given us heading into tomorrow's home clash with Leeds as we look to make it three wins in a row for the first time this season:

“I really loved this display (from Wor Flags). This is what has always made Newcastle United. When I used to watch Newcastle before I signed, they were always strong together. And now this team is so united.”

"It was time to get a clean sheet again. That is what we worked for. I am really happy with the clean sheet and the win. We should take the confidence to the next home game.

"The table is really, really tight so each game is really important at this time of the season."

Last but certainly not least, the German discussed his first goal at St James' Park and his celebration with Nick Woltemade:

“It was an amazing feeling to score my first goal at St James’ Park. So nice to celebrate in front of the fans - you could see the emotions in their faces!

“Mine and Nick’s celebration - we started this when he scored goals and we’ve kept it going since!