Dan Burn was not the most glamorous signing made by Newcastle United during the January transfer window but has arguably emerged as the most astute. His commanding displays in the heart of defence have kept club captain Jamaal Lascelles out of the side and helped Newcastle steer further away from the relegation battle.
Since returning from illness after missing the win over Aston Villa, Lascelles has started just one league game. He was restored to the starting XI when Newcastle boss Eddie Howe switched to a back five in an attempt to contain Chelsea's plethora of attacking talent but returned to the bench for the trip to Everton.
Burn's form has ensured there have not been calls for a Lascelles return but an interesting statistic serves as a reminder that the Magpies captain is of value to the club. The 28-year-old has been a key figure in recent years but has not stood out under Howe and Burn now appears to be one of the first names on the teamsheet.
READ MORE: Mikel Merino admits he misses Newcastle days as he still gets 'goosebumps'
However, as per WhoScored, Lascelles has won an average of 3.8 aerial duels per Premier League game. This is the sixth highest figure in the entire division, placing the defender above the likes of Liverpool icon Virgil van Dijk and Manchester United duo Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire.
Lascelles may not be the most comfortable centre-back on the ball but his ability to dominate in the air quality that cannot be ignored and can certainly come in handy. Even the most disjointed of Premier League sides can pose an aerial threat and having a player who is one of the division's most prolific winners of aerial duels at your disposable is undoubtedly valuable.
Now that Newcastle have bolstered their defence, Lascelles may not be the first-team regular he once was, but the statistic serves as a reminder that he still has worth to Howe.
For the latest Newcastle news direct to your inbox, go here to sign up to our free newsletter
