Hornicek 'has been compared to the best in Portugal'
· Yahoo Sports
Newcastle United signed goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Braga earlier this month after his release clause was activated.
Portuguese football journalist Kevin Fernandes has provided some insight on what fans can expect from the new recruit.
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Speaking to BBC Radio Newcastle on his strengths, Fernandes said: "He is 6ft 6in but he doesn't act like it. His agility is amazing, his reflexes are top. Snap reactions, quick saves. He sweeps the ball really well and doesn't take too many risks.
"He's young so he could grow. He is top-level at shot stopping. He has been compared to the best in Portugal - Diogo Costa, the Portuguese national goalkeeper. Braga went to the semi-finals of the Europa League and he saved three penalties. Meanwhile, Nick Pope let in three more goals than statistics suggest that he should have.
"He saves so much. He is the sort of goalkeeper who wins Braga points. He's the difference between a loss, a draw and a win. He is a highly-rated prospect. He has been very highly-touted since he has risen through the ranks at Braga. It was a matter of time before this happened and it's where he belongs to me. It's where he has belonged since the beginning."
On his weaknesses, Fernandes added: "Hornicek is a secure ball player and can step into the backline quite comfortably but he is not flashy.
"If he can go long he is going to prefer to do that. He's comfortable, he's secure, he won't make mistakes. He is so punch-heavy, he plays very safe. He's going to punch first rather than take any lower percentage risks."
Listen to the full discussion below or on BBC Sounds here