Liam Kennedy has criticised the performance of Federico Fernandez as Newcastle United lost 4-3 to Manchester City in the Premier League on Friday night.

The Lowdown: Newcastle inspired

Steve Bruce's team put in an inspired display against the newly-crowned champions at St James' Park, but goals from Emil Krafth, Joelinton and Joe Willock were not enough as Pep Guardiola's men took all three points away from Tyneside.

One player who did not have the best of games was Fernandez, and Kennedy was particularly critical of the Argentine's performance.

The Latest: Kennedy criticises Fernandez

Writing in his latest player ratings piece for Shields Gazette, Kennedy claimed that Fernandez 'looked a yard off the pace' and was 'second to every ball', gibing him a mere 5/10 overall rating, the lowest out of any player to have started the game for the Magpies.

The former Swansea City man endured a torrid time, particularly against Ferran Torres, who ended up scoring a hat-trick.

The Verdict: Fernandez must do better

Fernandez simply has to do better if he is to stay in the team for Newcastle's remaining fixtures of the campaign.

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The Argentina international failed to block any shots or record any interceptions or tackles against Pep Guardiola's side and only managed 18 touches of the ball in total, fewer than his own goalkeeper Martin Dubravka and any other outfield player to have started the match (Sofascore).

Nonetheless, it was against the newly-crowned champions and Champions League finalists, and so the 32-year-old defender will be hoping that there are easier assignments to come after a less than stellar display last night.

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