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Newcastle fans say they might just have a new all-time favourite player after 5-0 win over Crystal Palace

Giuseppe Labellarte

Wed 16 April 2025 21:38, UK

Newcastle United have moved up to third in the Premier League table after running out 5-0 winners over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.

Newcastle have been rampant in recent weeks, winning their last six in a row in all competitions and registering 12 goals in their last three games.

The Magpies opened the scoring through Jacob Murphy on 14 minutes before the floodgates opened shortly before the break.

Marc Guehi scored an own goal in the 38th minute before Harvey Barnes and Fabian Schar netted in first-half injury time.

Alexander Isak then got his first goal in three games when he fired first-time into the bottom corner from 25 yards out in the 58th minute.

Although Sandro Tonali didn’t get on the scoresheet, Newcastle fans were all making the same point about him during and after the match.

READ MORE: Newcastle, Tottenham and West Ham eye AC Milan defender likened to Sergio Ramos

Some Newcastle fans say Sandro Tonali may be one of the best players they’ve ever seen play for them

Newcastle fans could barely believe how good Tonali has been for their club, deeming him one of the best players they’ve ever seen in black and white.

“Sandro Tonali best midfielder I’ve ever seen in a Toon shirt in my life,” one fan said. “No better midfielder in world football.”

Another supporter said: “If you don’t think Tonali is a Top 3 midfielder in the Prem then you don’t know football. Best midfielder I’ve seen play for us.”

The praise for Tonali kept coming, with one fan saying: “I love Alan Shearer and he will always be my idol but I think Tonali may end up being the best footballer I’ve ever seen in an NUFC shirt.

“There is no weakness and he excels in every single aspect of being a footballer.”

Another fan wrote: “Sandro Tonali is by the best midfielder I’ve seen in a black and white shirt. He is the complete package. Could’ve played in the 90’s 442 no drama. Absolute (train).”

Another fan said: “I no longer have words to describe what I have seen from Tonali this season. He might be the best player I’ve ever seen play for Newcastle.”

How Sandro Tonali fared for Newcastle against Crystal Palace

Tonali was at his unplayable best against Palace, once again staking a claim for being one of the best midfielders in the world right now.

The Italy international never stopped running in the game and showed amazing control, positioning and vision to dictate play throughout.

Although Tonali didn’t score, he provided a wonderful pass to put Barnes through for Newcastle’s third goal.

Newcastle well and truly struck gold when they brought Tonali to St James’ Park – indeed, AC Milan fans are still gutted Tonali no longer with them.