ANALYSIS: Andre Ayew’s first two EPL games in perspective

Two games. Two goals. That’s how Andre Ayew’s start to life in the Premier League has begun. Not too shabby at all from the Swansea new man.
Ayew backed up his impressive debut against Chelsea last weekend with another performance full of upside. This time it was Newcastle who were made to suffer, as the dynamic Ghanaian ran his opponent, Massadio Haidara, ragged, with his unpredictable movement causing his French opponent particular hardship.
Throughout his time on the pitch, Ayew, from his station on the right wing, varied his movement to great effect. Whether opting to stay wide, drift infield, drop deep or make a run in behind the Newcastle defence, he just didn’t stand still, thus never allowing the Magpies to settle into a routine through which to stop him. There was no pattern to go by. Ayew used his instincts to spot gaps that he believed he could exploit, and exploit them he did.
Swansea’s opener that was coolly finished by the towering Bafetimbi Gomis, following a slicing Jonjo Shelvey assist, was a fine example of a sequence that was set into motion courtesy Ayew’s expert movement.
In this instance, the 25-year-old, after initially dropping deep as he looked to provide an option to his central midfielders, then cunningly snuck back towards goal after not being used. Ayew now found himself situated perfectly in between Newcastle’s midfield and defensive lines, right behind Jack Colback, who had lost him.
Federico Fernandez then proceeded to hit up Shelvey, who in turn found Ayew. Shelvey continued forward and Ayew’s tidy one touch ball gave him all the time and space he needed to play Gomis in to score. A brilliant move that Ayew didn’t receive the plaudits for, but one where his teammates and manager would’ve definitely appreciated his crucial contribution.

However, for the Swans’ second goal, Ayew’s influence was inescapable. Once he noticed Jefferson Montero screaming down the left flank in customary fashion, the French born attacker took off. By the time Montero got himself into a crossing position, Ayew had taken up a perfect position inside the box.
Once the ball was delivered, Ayew leapt up over the imposing Fabricio Coloccini to exquisitely head home. The sequence gave testament to Ayew’s incredible athleticism and power, for beating Coloccini in an aerial duel is no walk in the park.
The elastic-limbed dribbler’s performance really did have a tremendous impact on his side being able to dominate Newcastle, which, in fairness to them, they were already doing even prior to Daryl Janmaat’s sending off.
While Ayew showcased his outstanding dribbling talent, which is undoubtedly helped by his low centre of gravity, and his passing skills, his movement and work-rate set him apart in this contest.
With Swansea completely controlling the second half due to their numerical advantage, it was fascinating to note how Ayew ostensibly played the role of a number 10.
He’d constantly drift into the middle and knit his side’s attacking phases together, knowing the tiring Newcastle team were happy to sit back and let him roam free.
Haidara must be commended for his attitude in approaching the task of dealing with his adversary but, ultimately, the elusive Ghanaian ran out the clear winner in their duel.
His manager, Garry Monk, who Ayew admitted was a pivotal factor in him heading to Swansea, has already noted how well the former Marseille star has settled into his new home.
“He’s come in and he’s been incredible,” Monk said.
“He’s worked extremely hard with the group, the group have worked hard with him to get him settled and it’s always good for a new player when you come into a new league – even though we knew he has great quality.
“[Ayew] has all the credentials, skill and ability to do well. He’s a great calibre of signing.”
Ayew too noted how everyone at the club has made his adjustment to a new country as smooth as possible, and how beneficial that’s been to his flying start, saying: “The guys have really helped me settle, and I am happy to have scored in both games. Hopefully it continues like this, but the most important thing is that Swansea win.
“The team spirit is really good here. When you come from a different country, it is important that the guys help you, and that is what has happened for me here.”
Although the son of the great Abedi Pele moved to Swansea on a free, the £5.7 million signing-on fee clearly played a key role in the deal being done. Ayew also instantly became the club’s highest earner upon the completion of the transfer, which further depicts the sheer desire of the Swans to get their man. So far, he’s repaying the club’s faith and justifying their outlay brilliantly.
With two goals from two games and a golden handshake to boot, Ayew must be absolutely thrilled with his move to England.