The player and the role

Matthias Jaissle's plan makes Horníček the rear point of a build-up diamond. Nico González drops towards the centre-backs, Miley shifts across the base and the full-backs advance. The goalkeeper should draw the first presser, find the spare midfielder, or skip pressure into a wide runner. Newcastle's game state keeps replacing that job with emergency shot-stopping.

How they play

If the short diamond is closed, Horníček goes long. Newcastle must then compress around the target and win the second ball. When that structure breaks, the opponent attacks an aggressive line before the block has reset. Leeds exposed this repeatedly. The goalkeeper therefore moves from intended spare man to actual last man within seconds.

What the numbers tell us

He has faced 29 shots, made 19 saves and conceded nine. FotMob credits him with 3.23 goals prevented, the league's highest early figure. Among 11 keepers aged 22 to 26, his 3.8 saves per 90 rank second and his expected-goal workload ranks first. Newcastle are receiving value from him, but in the least desirable phase.

How the role has evolved

At Braga, about 35% of his league passes were long and he completed 74.9% overall. Newcastle have pushed the long share to about 52%; overall completion is down to 60% and long accuracy to 25.3%. The harder targets and heavier pressure matter, so "poor kicker" is too simple. Execution on the forced route remains the concern.

How they compare

League comparisons use the same FPL position and players within two years of age, with at least 180 minutes this season or 900 last season. Other measures identify their provider or competition below.

2nd

Saves per 90

11 goalkeepers, age 22 to 26

He has made 3.8 saves per 90.

1st

Expected-goal workload

11 goalkeepers, age 22 to 26

No peer has faced a heavier early workload.

Where they can improve

One high claim in five games shows that area command is not yet matching the shot-stopping. The direct exit also keeps returning possession.