Our scout is a top football expert who attends matches each week searching for the next star. Here is his verdict on Swansea shotstopper Freddie Woodman.
WHAT HAS HE GOT?
Swansea are defending well as they move up the table and Woodman can take a lot of credit for that. Already 23, he has earned valuable experience going out on loan since joining Newcastle.
Woodman is confident, 6ft 2in and keeps his defenders alert with instructions. He is an assured passer in possession, which is so important in the modern game, and is comfortable spreading the ball out to the flanks to stretch the opposition press.
He wasn’t busy when I watched him because his team were so well organised but he still kept his concentration brilliantly. Called upon to block a goal-bound shot after a period of inactivity he responded well.
His position when an opponent hit the byline enabled him to move across his goal to cover a far-post header that came from the cross. He collected balls comfortably throughout the game.
WHAT DOES HE NEED?
Assessing goalkeepers is more difficult than outfield players as on quiet nights you don’t see them working under pressure.
But Woodman has had an interesting career path and will be a valued competitor at Newcastle if Martin Dubravka or Karl Darlow earn a move.
He has the experience and seems to have the temperament.
