Ex-Toon Player Says 'Ben Arfa Was The Best'

Last updated : 07 August 2019 By Footy Mad - Editor

Former Newcastle defender JamesPerch recounts the magic of Hatem Ben Arfa, and admits then when it came to training he hoped he wouldn't be against him.

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"Ben Arfa by a mile," he replies when asked who stood out.

"I think everyone knows the talent he's got, if he just had the mental ability of a top player, like Sergio Aguero, I think he would have been held at that elite level.

"He was magic; in training you were hoping you were on his side so he didn't embarrass you, but he was fantastic.

"He didn't always do it in training because of that laziness about him but on a Saturday; but, if he was on it, he could win you the game."

The arrival of Papiss Cissewas the catalyst which secured United's position in the top five, as he hit 13 goals in his first 14 games.

"When Pappiss came in, he just hit the ground running - his first game against Villa and he scored - it was 'just wow' - everything he touched seemed to go in.

"He was unorthodox the way he scored goals but he knew where the back of the net was and he was brilliant at it.

"Demba was very similar. It was a shame for Demba because he got shifted out onto the left when Papiss came in - I think he wanted to be a number nine as well - but they still scored a hatful of goals for us."