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Boss Full Of Praise For Wide Man Obertan
Written by Newcastle Utd
Steve McClaren has heaped praise on winger Gabriel Obertan ahead of United's trip to Swansea
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Steve McClaren has heaped praise on winger Gabriel Obertan ahead of Newcastle United's trip to Swansea City on Saturday in the Barclays Premier League (3pm kick-off).
The former Manchester United man started the Magpies' opening game against Southampton and caught the eye with an impressive display, topped by an outstanding assist for Georginio Wijnaldum's header.
While Obertan's selection in the United starting line-up may have come as a surprise to some on-lookers, head coach McClaren admitted: "It wasn't a big call.
"He had done well in pre-season and it was tactical. We played Gaby in a wide position and he was effective there.
"He nullified the Southampton right-back, (Cedric) Soares, getting forward, so he did a job last week, not just defensively but in attack, too. He created the second goal and that's what he is capable of.
"When I see him in training and the games in pre-season at times, he is a terrific talent - so quick and so strong, and a Premier League player."
Meanwhile, Dutch midfielder Vurnon Anita should be fit to play against the Swans at the Liberty Stadium.
The 26-year-old was stretchered off with a back injury midway through the second half of the Magpies' opening day draw with Southampton but returned to training earlier this week.
And McClaren also offered updates on the condition of Emmanuel Riviere, Remy Cabella and Paul Dummett.
"Vurnon has trained this morning (Friday), so he's okay," said the head coach.
"Manu has had a small operation on his cartilage in France and is back here on Monday.
"Cabella is back in training and Dummett should be back in training on Monday, so hopefully that's a couple of plusses for Monday."
