Last season was one to forget for Newcastle’s Vurnon Anita, it has to be said. Consistently poor displays from the little Dutchman led to many of the Geordie faithful wanting him out of the team, and they certainly had a case.

However, a drastic change in performance levels from Anita this season has gone unnoticed by many. He has been a sturdy mainstay in our team this year, and many of his displays have been immense to say the least.

The usual centre-midfield partnership of Colback and Tiote was broken this year, after both players suffered injuries that ruled them out for a few weeks.

It’s no surprise that even when both Colback and Tiote remain fit, Anita still retains his place in McClaren’s starting eleven.

The 26-year old has a big role to play in the team, and although he may not be the type of quality we need to break into the top ten, he has been impressive this season.

Anita averages a pass accuracy of 79% and has made no defensive errors in a black-and-white shirt under Steve McClaren.

He presses opposition attackers and midfielders with high intensity and determination, always looks ready to receive the ball, blocks various passing lanes and without doubt, gives his all.

Yes, Anita lacks creativity when going forward, but that’s not what he’s there for.

Newcastle do need to sign a box-to-box midfielder who can dictate the tempo of games in January, and the acquisition of this type of player would only improve Anita’s overall game.

A lot of the Dutchman’s performances have gone unnoticed, in my opinion. In the wins against Liverpool and Tottenham, he executed his role as an anchorman brilliantly and kept both team’s playmakers relatively quiet.

The signing of a top quality centre-midfielder to play alongside Anita would undoubtedly make his job much easier, inevitably leading to more sturdy displays.

Arguably, he has been one of our best players this season and undeniably, he has been our best centre-midfielder this season.