After just one match, it already seems shocking that none of England’s top teams made a January move for Moussa Sissoko.
The French international midfielder joined Newcastle’s French foreign legion, and made an immediate impact on debut, scoring twice and setting up a goal in the Magpies’ last-minute win over Chelsea at the weekend.
23-year-old Sissoko has all the attributes to succeed in the Premier League. He is big, strong, fast and skilful. And so it is no surprise that he already claims to be a perfect fit with the English top flight.
"I think that this league is made for me," Sissoko told reporters ahead of France's friendly game against Germany at the Stade de France.
"I had the desire to play in the English league and Newcastle gave me this opportunity. I am very happy to be here."
Sissoko was held back in defensive midfield by his former club Toulouse, and he felt liberated by Newcastle’s decision to utilise him in a more advanced role.
English football loves a rampaging midfielder, and Sissoko feels as if he has arrived at home.
"My game is forward-driven. At Newcastle and in England football is more offensive so it suits me better," he said.
Sissoko’s immediate job will be to push the Magpies further away from the bottom of the table, and spark their drive in the latter part of the season towards the Europa League places.
But don’t be surprised if as soon as next season, the man signed for a reported £1 million is Newcastle’s most saleable asset, and a tidy EPL profit-earner.