On Wednesday night, Jeff Hendrick received his 72nd cap for Ireland, but Stephen Kennys side won 1-0 against Ukraine, according to an Irish media outlet. The Examiner was extremely dissatisfied with the Newcastle midfielder.
Hendrick, 30, has endured a terrible spell at Newcastle. He joined the club under Steve Bruces in 2020 and has managed just 27 appearances in two seasons. He went on loan to QPR in January, playing 11 times.
He remains a key player in the Ireland team, but after returning to the game, the Kennys side have performed a u-turn in the last few days. After eight games unbeaten, they have lost their last two outings.
A gruesome 1-0 defeat to Armenia on Saturday was followed up by a 1-0 loss to Ukraine Viktor Tsygankovs free-kick curling past Caoimhin Kelleher. Hendrick saw out the entire 90, but was given a 4/10 rating by the Examiner.
The Newcastle men''s position in the first eleven must be at jeopardy after being fought from early in the first half.
Newcastle midfielder Hendrick is criticised by Irish media.
Hendrick''s comeback performance summed up by his. He looked off the pace and was unsurprised at his ability to excel against a strong Ukraine midfield, given Hendrick only played 15 times in 21-22.
While he has a contract worth 40,000 people a week (Spotrac), he will certainly be on the chopping block. He has even stated himself that he will not play for Newcastle again.
Perhaps it is just what he needs. A return to the Championship to strengthen his career, will in-turn, and rejuvenate his performances in an Irish shirt. He is still only 30, and he has time to spare.
